Richard “Kirk” McKenna, 79, of Indian Rocks Beach, FL, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on November 9, 2024—one day shy of his 80th birthday.
Kirk was born on November 10, 1944, in Lansing, Michigan, to Richard and Beatrice McKenna. Though he lost his father at a young age, Kirk cherished his time spent in Lake Odessa with his mother, uncles, siblings, and nieces.
At 17, Kirk became a father to Troy, and was later blessed with Tami, Tina, and Todd. He moved to Florida in 1972, where he married his wife and love of his life, Elizabeth “Betsy” McKenna, in 1981. Together, they raised two daughters, Megan and Meredith, surrounded by their older siblings.
Kirk had a successful career, first as a car salesman and later as an insurance agent with Allstate Insurance, where he owned and operated his own business for many years. His career allowed him to pursue many passions, including boating, traveling, golfing, and enjoying good food and drinks. However, nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family and friends. Known for his boisterous laugh and storytelling, Kirk was always ready with a warm hug and a cocktail for those around him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Betsy McKenna, and children and spouses: Troy and Chris McKenna, Tami List, Tina Hay, James and Megan Salmon, and Vincent and Meredith Iuppa. He is also cherished by his grandchildren, who they lovingly called “Bobo”: Tyler List, Tobie Daniels, Lyndsey McKenna, Mackenzie Gibson, Logan McKenna, Mallorie List, Hannah McKenna, Aubrey McKenna, Sara Mae Salmon, James Salmon, Vincent Iuppa, and Luca Iuppa. He is also a great-“Bobo” to Kalai Coleman, Lewis McKenna Bunker, Henry McKenna Bunker, Eleanor McKenna, Malia Davila, Murphie Gibson, and Charles McKenna Bunker.
Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Beatrice McKenna; his sisters and their spouses, Edward and Patricia Spencer, and Eric and Judith Pierce; and his son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Jaqueline McKenna.
A celebration of Kirk’s life will be held on November 14, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Dunedin, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Clearwater Community Sailing Center (https://secure.givelively.org/donate/clearwater-community-sailing-association-inc/in-memory-of-richard-kirk-mckenna) in Kirk’s memory.
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