Terry Kirkpatrick, a loving husband, devoted son, and beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 13, 2016, surrounded by the family he adored. Born on December 12, 1946, in Wilmington, Delaware, Terry was the son of the late George M. Kirkpatrick.

Terry graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 1964, where he met his wife of over 50 years, Lynn. A man of many talents, Terry worked as a computer programmer and real estate agent. He had a deep love for the outdoors and gardening, which led him and Lynn to become frequent visitors to Longwood Gardens. His passion for the gardens eventually led to a job there, where he worked as a security guard before retiring.

At the age of 16, Terry began his lifelong commitment to the fire service by joining the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company as a junior member. He continued his volunteer career with the Mill Creek Fire Company, first at Station 21, where he served as Treasurer, and later at Station 2, where he attained the rank of Engine Captain. Terry retired as a Life Member. He had a passion for collecting fire engine and firehouse memorabilia and made it a point to visit local fire companies during his travels, documenting his adventures with numerous photos.

Terry was also a devoted Washington Redskins fan, enjoying every game, win or lose, in his Redskins-themed man cave. In retirement, he and Lynn embraced spontaneity, taking impromptu trips to the beach, shopping excursions to Lancaster, a cross-country train trip, and several cruises to destinations including Alaska, New England, and the Caribbean.

Terry cherished nothing more than spending time with his family. He, Lynn, and his mother, Dorothy, were regulars at local eateries like Crossroads, Ruby Tuesday’s, and Friendly’s, as well as Harrington Casino. As a father, Terry was a guiding and loving presence, always involved in his daughters’ lives, from coaching softball to posing for silly photos for school projects. He was ever-present at his grandchildren’s school and extracurricular events, and family gatherings were filled with games, movies, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Visits from his grandpets were a highlight, and he always had treats on hand.

Terry is survived by his best friend and love of his life, Lynn Kirkpatrick; his mother, Dorothy Kirkpatrick; his daughters and sons-in-law, Tracey and Michael Walls (Newark), and Dawn and Robert Rhoades (Wilmington). He was adored by his grandchildren, Lorin and Daniel Huerta (Bear), James Walls (Wilmington), and Tyler Walls (Wilmington). Terry will also be fondly remembered by his grandpets, Sunny, Ziva, Storm, Ruger, Remington, Boodah, and Gracie.

The family extends a special thank you to the Mill Creek Fire Company for providing transportation, allowing Terry to be home with his family as he wished. They also express their gratitude to the Christiana Hospital staff for their exceptional and compassionate care, as well as to Seasons Hospice.

In honor of Terry, and in lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Mill Creek Fire Company, 3808 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, in Terry’s name.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 20, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. at Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, Delaware, where friends may visit after 11:30 a.m.