Kirkham Cox
January 07, 1955 - October 23, 2024
Obituary
Kirkham Dane Cox passed away on October 23, 2024, at the age of 69. He was born on January 7, 1955, in Wichita Falls, Texas, and was the youngest of five children to Ray and Mary Lee Cox.
Kirk's early years were marked by a life of adventure. When he was just eight weeks old, his family moved to Europe, where they lived in France and Germany while his father served as a career Air Force officer. Kirk spent the first six years of his life abroad, returning to the United States to attend first grade in San Antonio, Texas. In his teenage years, the family moved to Virginia, where he became involved in the local music scene, playing guitar in a band and performing at teen clubs.
Kirk's service to his country began when he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he worked as an airframe repairer. After leaving the military, he moved to Billings, Montana in 1977, where he held a variety of jobs, including his most recent career as a truck driver.
He was a lifelong lover of music, particularly The Beatles, and one of his greatest passions was playing guitar. Never putting down the guitar, he often found himself lost in the music. Kirk was also a passionate history enthusiast. He spent countless hours reading books on history and philosophy, always eager to engage in thoughtful discussions on these topics. In the 90s, he pursued his interest in psychology and philosophy by attending Eastern Montana College, where he studied the subjects with great joy.
Kirk also had a deep love for motorcycles and the freedom of the open road. He spent many hours riding, whether on a leisurely cruise through the countryside or simply enjoying the wind in his hair. His passion for motorcycles was a defining part of his life, and he found peace and exhilaration in the solitude and adventure of long rides. He will be remembered by the joy he found in the sound of an engine revving and the feeling of the open road stretching ahead.
In February of 1995, Kirk became a father to a baby girl. His greatest pride and joy was his daughter, Selina, who held a special place in his heart. Their relationship was built on love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Above all, Kirk cherished being a father; he found deep joy in this role, sharing with her his love for learning, creativity, and adventure.
Aa a proud Texas Longhorn fan, Kirk's passions were as varied as his life experiences. Whether it was strumming his guitar, sharing a story about history, sharing his music, or riding on the open road, Kirk had a unique way of connecting with others and will be deeply missed.
Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Mary Lee, and his older brother, Ray Jr. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Selina Schmidt (TJ), his sisters, Kaye Jacobson (Don), Jan Sangiuliano (Art), and his brother, Michael Cox, along with his niece Jessica Reyes (Carlos) and their children, Briana and Giovanni, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Kirk's legacy is one of curiosity, love for knowledge, and dedication to family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service celebrating Kirk's life will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Yellowstone National Cemetery located at 55 Buffalo Trail Rd, Laurel, MT 59044. The service is open to all who would like to attend.