Life & Legacy
James Julan “Kimo” Kirkman Jr. was born on September 20, 1944, in Provo, Utah, to James Julan Kirkman Sr. and Bonnie Jean Shrewsbury.
Kimo was a gifted athlete and a proud daydreamer. During high school, he wrestled and played tennis, football, and baseball, and was honored as Homecoming King. He remained undefeated in tennis while attending the University of Nevada, Reno, and earned a full-ride football scholarship to Ricks College.
In June of 1970, Kimo married Kathleen Mergenthaler. Together they raised three children — Maia (Jaimie) Caldwell, Karina (Art) Fowler, and Travis (Kayley) Kirkman. He was also blessed with a fourth child, Michael Kirkman, from another relationship. In total, he was a proud father to four children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Throughout his life, Kimo explored many paths and careers. He sold cars, art, Rena Ware, Electrolux vacuums, sold and sharpened knives, and worked as a house painter, both interior and exterior. He earned his certification as a tennis teaching professional at the Van Der Meer Tennis Center, fulfilling a lifelong passion for the sport.
Kimo was known for his generosity and curiosity. He frequently donated blood and was always willing to help others. Once, he even offered to donate an eye to a family friend — a testament to his giving nature. He was deeply moved by small acts of love, like when he mentioned needing a tool and his son-in-law Jaimie went out and bought it for him. He also enjoyed cooking and was known as a capable and cheerful sous-chef in the kitchen.
Kimo is survived by his siblings Sally (Kent) Kirkman Reimann, Diana Kirkman Fogle, John Kirkman, and Lee Kirkman; his first wife, Kathy (Jim) Stevens; his children Maia (Jaimie) Caldwell, Karina (Art) Fowler, Travis (Kayley) Kirkman, and Michael Kirkman; 14 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother and second wife Bonnie Kirkman, his sister Janet (Gerald) Kirkman Hixson, and beloved granddaughters Adra and Lillie.
A Memorial service of Kimo’s life will be on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with the service beginning at 10:30 am at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to park on the north side of the building. Kimo will be laid to rest following the service at the Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale.
In Remembrance
Kimo will be remembered for his humor, determination, generosity, and the bright spirit he brought to everyone around him. His family and friends will miss him deeply and carry his memory in their hearts forever.
