Obituary of Kipper John Irwin

Kipper John was born at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado. He passed away peacefully in the company of loved ones on the morning of May 8, 2021 in Colorado Springs.Growing up in Meeker, Colorado, Kip was very devoted to his family and friends. He graduated from Meeker High School in '65 where he excelled in basketball and in baseball. Upon graduation from high school, Kip voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army where he distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions in the Vietnam War. On August 8, 1967, Specialist Irwin, disregarding his own safety, protected the lives of his fellow unit soldiers by picking up and tossing back an armed hand grenade in a cave killing the enemy and wounding himself. For his wounds received in action he received the Purple Heart. For gallantry serving his country, Kipper was awarded the U.S. Army's Silver Star and Air Medal.Kip carried that same high level of bravery, determination, and unselfish love for all of those around him for the rest of his living years. During his life's journey Kip had many professional talents. His first job was working at his father's hardware store. He also worked as a field specialist with the Colorado Department of Fish and Game, photographer, Licensed Real Estate Broker/Appraiser, Home Health Care Supervisor, and most recently as Colorado Springs' most popular concert and special events usher! Kipper's laugh was infectious and whatever he was doing in his spare time he was certainly smiling and laughing while he was doing it! Kip loved to golf, fish, travel, attend concerts and sporting events, and always enjoyed his leisure activities most with family and friends. Kip's fondness for his furry friends was well known. Kip's beloved chihuahua, "Buster", is affectionately known in family circles as "Velcro"!Kip is preceded in death by his father, John Irwin; mother, Louise "Polly" Irwin; and his infant brother, Gary. Kipper is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Jane Irwin; brother, Brad Irwin (Rich Conway); sister, Patricia Irwin Cary (Earle); devoted stepsons, Scott Kendall Uhl (Dulcy) and Richard William Uhl (Debbie); granddaughters, Emily Ann Uhl and Kaitlyn Jane Uhl; uncles, Dean McIntosh and Allyn Blencoe; nephews, Randi Cary (Lisa), Mikel Cary (Susan) and Brett Cary (Tina); great-nephews, Steele Cary (Stephanie), Brandon Cary and Brian Cary (Amber); and great-nieces, Ashley Vermilyea (Jon) and Samantha Schrell (Adrian).