Kirk William Stanley, age 46, died May 19, 2024. He was born March 19, 1978, in Newton, Kansas to Ron and Jeanette (Williams) Stanley, then raised in Valley Center KS where he spent the rest of his life. He was preceded by his grandparents, Luther and Katherine Stanley of Valley Center, Kansas. Kirk is survived by his children Welden, Hayden, and Huxley. They were the joys of his life. He is also survived by his parents, Ron and Jeanette of Valley Center, KS, grandparents, Margaret and Gordon Williams of Valley Center, KS, sister Erin Reffner (Jarod), niece and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many treasured friends. He was legally separated.
Kirk had a deep love of farming throughout his life. As a child he would sometimes stand on the playground and watch his Dad farm the area around the school, instead of playing. He held onto that fascination and love. It was only surpassed later by his love for his children when they came along. Kirk will be remembered by man of his willingness and skill to help others. He could always be called upon to help, whether it was fixing something (which he could do like no one else) or rescuing someone stranded or in need. Kirk graduated from Valley Center high School then went on to the Wichita Area Technical College where he studied and excelled in Welding. Being able to weld skillfully helped him and many others in farming and also gave him another way to help others in need.
Kirk's family will always remember how he could light up a room when he walked in with his humor and love; how much he loved playing with his kids (like he was one!) and watching their sports and events; and how proud we are of how he always went out of his way to help others.
Visitation will be held at Petersen Family Funeral Home in Newton, KS on Wednesday May 29, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. His Celebration of Life service will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Valley Center on May 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate your thoughts, prayers and a kind act toward others.