Our wonderful Henry "Hank" P. Kirk of Centralia, Washington, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend passed peacefully away at age 90 on April 14, 2026. Henry was a devout Christian. He was a man of faith guided by the Lord in everything he said and did. This Pennsylvania boy shared his contagious enthusiasm for the Lord, life, and people throughout his years. The twinkle in his eye reflected his inner joy. He was often described as a gentle man who lived life to the fullest.

Henry married his first wife, Mattie, in 1957. Together they worked hard, pursued higher education goals and careers, and raised three children, Timothy, Maryann (Jim), and Rebecca (C.K.). Mattie and Henry were actively involved at St. Andrew's Church (Redondo Beach, California) when they brought together young adults in the CAB Co (College and Business Co) with weekly meetings, newsletters, and fun activities like sky diving, rafting, and a week-long hike in Waimea Canyon, Hawaii. The participants were inspired in their faith journeys to be followers of the Lord. After years of devoted marriage, Mattie passed away in 1996. Henry has five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

In July of 1997, Henry became reacquainted with Jenny who joined Henry's world in the Pacific Northwest when they were married a week before his 62nd birthday. They filled the 28 plus years they had together with wonderful projects, extensive travel, and many exciting adventures. She has one son, Chris (Heidi) and five grandchildren.

Higher education was Henry's passion. He earned his bachelor's degree in history from Geneva College, a master's degree in counseling from the University of Denver, and his doctorate in higher education from the University of Southern California. Henry served as an instructor, counselor, and administrator at several institutions during his 40-year career in higher education. As president of Centralia College (Washington state) for 16 years, he led many talented people in transforming Centralia College into a mighty fine community college. He left the institution in highly capable hands to continue the process of striving for excellence. He was active in numerous professional associations, received many awards and distinctions, and was published in professional publications.

After retirement in 2002, Henry and Jenny became volunteer missionaries to help establish the University of Livingstonia, the first Christian university in Malawi, Africa. For the next 7 years, they spent much of each year in Africa helping the Synod of Livingstonia and Malawians lay the foundation for the fledgling institution and raising funds in the United Kingdom and America. They established and ran the University of Livingstonia Foundation to raise money for student scholarships and projects until 2013.

Hobbies? From childhood, Henry was a fan of antique and classic cars. He owned and had fully restored a 1930 Ford Model A Cabriolet. Such a fun Bronson Yellow convertible to share with the public and Model A enthusiasts. His favorite vehicle was his sleek, 1966 Chevrolet Silver Corvette Sting Ray. In the early years, he often drove his children to school (stuffed behind the front seats) and loved humming along the highway.

A constant in Henry's adult life was leading men's Bible study groups called S.A.L.T. (Sharing All Life Together). He was well-prepared for discussions as men gathered for breakfast and Bible study at a local restaurant. He led two such groups for over 30 years in Chehalis and Centralia - a great way for men to become close friends and to dive into scripture by answering the questions, "What does it say? What does it mean? What does it mean to me?" Henry loved sharing the Lord with others and encouraging them in their walk of faith.

Those who joined Henry in any project or program were drawn to his charisma, his "can do" spirit, and his fair, consultative leadership. We shall miss the twinkle in his eye, the welcoming handshake or hug, his warm smile, and his penchant for joyous living.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Centralia College Foundation, 600 Centralia College Blvd., Centralia, WA 98531 in honor of Henry P. Kirk.

A Celebration of Life service is planned for the future - date to be determined.