Emmeline Kirk Wirthlin

Our sweet loving mother, grandma, Nana, and friend, Emmeline Kirk Wirthlin, passed away at age 91 on October 7 at her daughter’s home, surrounded by family.  She joined her husband Bill, who passed away 29 years ago.    

Emmeline was born September 17, 1927 in Pleasant Grove, Utah to Samuel Alma Kirk and Cleone Lund Kirk.  She had many happy memories of her childhood days, being a “Tom boy” and playing with her brother Warren’s many pets.        

She graduated from Pleasant Grove High School and then from BYU, where she met her eternal companion Bill Douglass Wirthlin.  They were married on July 14, 1949 in the Manti Temple.  They raised their four children in the Salt Lake City area.        

Emmeline was truly a “people” person, always loving and caring about every person in her life with an unselfish Christ-like love.  She was very generous, donating her time, money, or food to neighbors, family, or anyone in need.  Her au gratin potatoes were legendary and appreciated by countless people. She loved to visit her neighbors and be with her family to help with the grandchildren or great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.     

She especially loved babies and children.  She taught second and third grade for 26 years primarily at Hill View Elementary.  She served in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including the primary and compassionate service. Her favorite scripture was John 13:34: “Love one another as I have loved you.”   

She is survived by her children: Marilyn Hart (Keith), Carol Hart (Robert), Douglas Kirk Wirthlin, David Alma Wirthlin (Alison); plus 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Bill, her parents, and siblings.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 13 at 11:00 a.m. at the Valley View 11th Ward building, 1925 East Gundersen Lane (4140 So.), Holladay, Utah, with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral services.  Interment will be at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery.