Obituary of Norman Aubrey Kirkland

Norman was born in Flippin, Arkansas on July 26, 1925 to William Jefferson (Jeff) Kirkland and Biddie (Sanders).  He went to be with the Lord July 4, 2019 at the age of 93.  He passed away at Claremore Veterans Center where the staff took wonderful care of “Poppa” and treated him like a hero, a friend, and as one of their own family.

Norman moved to Wetumka, Oklahoma at a young age, where he attended school and worked on the family farm.  He joined the Army in 1945 and was stationed in Germany and Japan as part of the occupational forces.  Soon after his tour of duty he met his wife of 69 years, Betty Jo (Altstatt).  They married June 3, 1950 and had 3 children.  They eventually settled on a farm west of Sand Springs where they lived until 2014.  Norman worked as a machinist and retired from Zebco Corporation.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents, one half-brother and one half-sister, three brothers and five sisters.  He is survived by his wife Betty; son Norman Aubrey, Jr (Norm) and wife Deborah; son Donald Paul and wife Marilyn; and daughter Barbara Lynn; 6 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Fishing was Norman’s passion and he would spend his retirement years in his boat fishing as often as he could, taking along his little dog, Mickey.  He loved to raise a garden and would share the produce with neighbors and friends.  After a bout with cancer, he began sewing small quilts for charity.  He will be missed by all who knew him.

Visitation is Monday, July 8^th at Green Hill Funeral Home from 5-8 pm.  Funeral services are Tuesday at 10 am at Church of Christ on 10^th and Rockford (Tulsa) with burial in Green Hill Memorial Gardens.  The family has entrusted services to Green Hill Funeral Home.  400 E. Teel Road www.greenhillok.com