Obituary for Kenneth Leo Dircks

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Your family has my sincere condolences. I knew Ken in high school. The fierce rivalry between Highland and Columbus Junction played out in various hijinks and pranks surrounding sporting events and Ken was one of the ringleaders. He always had a smile on his face and an infectious laugh. He will be missed. With sympathy, Ann Dudler

To Kenny's Family: I am so sorry for you to have to go through the loss of Kenny. It was both a shock and a tragedy. I already miss my daily conversations and texts with him. I have known Kenny for approximately 20 years dating back to my days in college meeting Kenny when I was wrestling and seeing him downtown. It was not until 17 years later while sitting at Panera one weekend we discovered we were actually related. That story always made us both chuckle and we had just shared that story with someone last week. So many bad people in the world and the great ones seem to go first. Kenny was one of the great ones! He always had a smile on his face and made me laugh all the time. He was always willing to offer a helping hand and cared deeply about those closest to him. He never judged anyone and definitely could TALK to anyone. He touched many lives. Every time I pass or go into a Panera's I will always think of Kenny. Everyday driving to and from work I think of Kenny missing our phone conversations. The next Black Friday I will miss sitting at the mall with Kenny watching all the craziness. There are so many things that will remind me of all the good times and I hope they will do the same for you. I am so sorry I could not get out of my business travel to Chicago to make the memorial. I heard from many friends that attended about how nice it was and how many were present. I was there in spirit for my buddy. Though we are all dealing with our sadness that he was taken from us too soon. Please remember Kenny's positive attitude, his laugh, his happiness, and caring personality, as that is how Kenny would like to be remembered. Again, I am so sorry for your loss, you all are in my prayers. I do know I will miss my buddy.

I met Ken through friends in Columbus Jct. When we were all in high school in the 1970's. He was a smart, sincere man with a great sense of humor and adventure and the most endearing personality one could ever hope to encounter. He was an accomplished businessman and professional. We could all learn from his generosity and willingness to teach and share information! What a sweet man...our thoughts and prayers are with his family during their time of loss. Always the gentleman, he will not be forgotten.

I knew Kenny years ago through a common friend in Muscatine. Always remembered him as intelligent with a heart as big as Texas! He was one of those people who truly would give you the shirt off of his back! Pretty sure I saw him a couple weeks ago at Hy-Vee in Cedar Rapids. Didn't realize who it was until after the chance to visit with him was gone. Sure wish I had! My sympathies for your loss, Jennifer Fryberger-Blair

Dear family of Kenny, I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of Kenny. I have known him for quite some time....I was his hairstylist for 17 years. I was actually due to give him his usual reminder call for his hair appointment. We always had such a great connection; I felt as if he was kind of a second dad to me. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to you. He will be greatly missed! We love you Kenny; rest in peace! Sincerely, Kelli and Peter Hajda

I was shocked at the news Ken passed away. We met in our early 20's and remained friends over the years. I hadn't seen Ken for a couple years but he would send his greetings through other friends or my family. Ken was a person of integrity and loyalty. I am sorry for your loss of a son and a brother. My prayers go out to all of you. Nancy

So sorry to hear about Ken. Ive known him for many years. Loved his big smile. He was renting my fiancés condo in Cedar Rapids. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.