Russell Wyman Kirkes

Russell W. "Rusty" Kirkes, 70, of Henderson, Texas passed away unexpectedly on March 14, 2023.

Rusty was born on April 10, 1952 to Max W. Kirkes and Elizabeth Bull Kirkes in Monterey, California. He graduated from Wichita High School, Wichita, Kansas. He earned his bachelor's degree from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. Rusty worked in different areas for the oil field for 40 years. After retiring from the oil field, he worked for Atwoods for the last 5 years because he loved helping people.

In 1978, Rusty married his beautiful bride, Fondia. Rusty and Fondia have 2 children. Shalet` E. Kirkes, preceded in death. Philip C. Kirkes of Greenwood, Arkansas. Philip and Mandy have 2 sons, Kenny and Hunter Kirkes of Greenwood, Arkansas. Rusty's family includes his step-mother, Donna Kirkes of Wichita, Kansas. 3 brothers: Billy Kirkes, preceded in death. Kris Kirkes and wife Penny of Overland Park, Kansas. Sean Kirkes of Wichita, Kansas. Charles Thornbrue, his best friend and brother from another mother, of Oklahoma City. Nephews: Joseph, Jeramey and James Richardson of Ratliff City, Oklahoma and their families. Donny Richardson of Watonga, Oklahoma.

Numerous friends and strangers.

Rusty was a very humble, God fearing man with a servant's heart. His smile and laugh would light up a room. Rusty loved to whistle. He could not sing a note, but whistled songs with grace. He loved to sing silly songs to the young kids. He was a hard working man. He loved to meet and help people. Rusty was always the first to volunteer to help in any way.

A Life Celebration memorial service for Rusty Kirks will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at The Cammack Family Welch Funeral Home.