Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Jeanne Marie Kirk, age 57, of Waupaca, WI, was peacefully called home by the Lord on Friday, October 11, 2024.
Born on Flag Day, June 14, 1967, at Riverside Memorial Hospital in Waupaca, Jeanne was the youngest of five children of Richard and Beverly (Milius) Kirk. Following the untimely passing of her father in 1971, Jeanne was lovingly raised by her mother and siblings, each playing a role in her upbringing.
Jeanne completed her early education in Waupaca and graduated from Waupaca High School in 1985. She went on to pursue higher education at UW-Oshkosh, earning a Bachelor of Music in music therapy and a Master’s degree in community counseling. In 1992, Jeanne became a registered music therapist, a certification that would pave the way for her distinguished career in service to others.
Her dedication to improving the lives of veterans was evident throughout her impactful tenure at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King. Beginning as an activity therapy assistant, Jeanne envisioned the profound healing power that music could bring to those in need. With passion and determination, she developed and implemented a transformative music therapy program that enriched the lives of countless veterans. By the time she retired, Jeanne had realized her dream of bringing the joy of music to those who needed it most.
Jeanne married David Trombla in 1997, and together they raised two cherished children, Ellen and William. A devoted mother, Jeanne took pride in creating a warm and loving home. She was an active and faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she joyfully led youth music programs and cultivated a deep sense of community.
In her free time, Jeanne found joy in painting, playing games with friends, and engaging in thoughtful conversations. She was known for her kind heart, exceptional listening skills, and the unwavering compassion she showed to everyone she encountered.
Jeanne’s resilience was a defining characteristic. Diagnosed with cancer for the first time at the age of 14, she fought bravely for decades, determined to remain present with those she loved. Her strength and grace inspired all who knew her.
Jeanne is survived by her mother, Beverly Kirk; her beloved children, Ellen and William Trombla; her former husband, David Trombla; and her siblings, Michael (Barbara) Kirk, Linda (Larry Behm) Kirk, Mary (Gary) Schulstad, and James (Jennifer) Kirk. She also leaves behind four nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness. Jeanne was preceded in death by her father, Richard Kirk.
A Celebration of Jeanne’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waupaca where services will be live-streamed. Reverend Andy Behrendt will officiate. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the church. Jeanne will be laid to rest at Lakeside Memorial Park following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated to the Trinity Lutheran Church Agape Fund or the Trinity Lutheran Church Cancer Support Group. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
