Mary Kirkpatrick

Mary Elizabeth Kirkpatrick was taken from her love of life on Sunday, November 23, 2025.She was born on July 22, 1961, in Newton, Kansas, the sixth child and fifth daughter in a family that later welcomed one more brother. Mary’s parents are Max and Marjorie Kirkpatrick.

Mary grew up in Newton, KS, where she attended both primary and high school. Her work life began early as a high-school student at Taco Tico, where she learned the value of hard work and taking pride in every job she did. She then followed her passion for nature to Kansas State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Resource Management.

After college, Mary became a Park Manager at Harvey County West Parks—a perfect fit for someone who felt most at home under open skies. She later continued park work at Lake Texoma, cherishing every moment spent in nature. Mary embraced new adventures, and one led her to Beloit, where she helped her sister run the Rainbow Tavern. There, she met her future husband, Roger Simoneau. The two shared an instant spark, and soon they eloped to Las Vegas, exchanging vows at the Little Chapel of the Bells on November 25, 1996. Their marriage was full of laughter, partnership, and nearly three decades of memories.

Mary spent over twenty-five wonderful years at Solomon Valley Home Center, where she became the cheerful “go‑to gal” for customers and coworkers alike. If someone needed help starting a project, Mary was ready with know‑how and a smile.

Even with a fulfilling work life, Mary’s heart always wandered back to the outdoors—especially to Fall River, Kansas, where her mother once lived. Mary and Roger spent countless days there, clearing brush, fixing fences, fishing, or simply soaking in the land's peace. Fall River was Mary’s sanctuary. She and Roger dreamed of retiring there, building a home nestled in the pasture near the river. That dream carried Mary through many difficult days as she bravely faced ovarian cancer.

In January of this year, a sweet piece of that dream came true. Mary and Roger bought a small house near Fall River Lake. They delighted in sunsets, deer sightings, and the quiet rhythm of nature. Even when Mary needed oxygen, she stayed determined—pulling her tank in a little cart at the lumberyard as she continued working with grace and grit.

Creativity flowed freely through Mary’s life. She stitched gorgeous cross‑stitch pieces, crafted imaginative dolls, created displays at work, and found joy in decorating for every holiday. Her famous Halloween dolls—lovingly made from bits and pieces others might throw away—were charming works of art.

Roger fondly recalls Mary’s love for Beloit’s community cleanup days. Armed with a six‑pack and a sense of adventure, the two would drive around searching for hidden “treasures” in discarded items. Mary always had a project brewing, and she loved discovering the potential in forgotten things.

She also had a gift for cooking, often experimenting with recipes she learned from the cooking channel. Her older brother Pat adored visiting Mary at Fall River, where she insisted he eat her home‑cooked meals—even if he brought Vienna sausages as backup. Mary’s cooking brought people together, creating warm memories for friends and family.

Mary and Roger cared for several mischievous pets through the years, and Mary had a special way of making her many nieces and nephews feel uniquely loved.

For nearly twenty years, Mary faced ovarian cancer with remarkable courage. She continued to smile, continued to hope, and continued to love deeply. Her oncologist called her a true warrior. Mary believed wholeheartedly that she would return home to enjoy life once more with Roger—but God had a different path prepared. She received her last rites surrounded by love.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents and brother Patrick Kirpatrick.

Mary is survived by her beloved husband, Roger Simoneau;

Siblings and their families:

• Kathryn Kirkpatrick of Fort Collins, CO — mother of the late Kari and Adam Moss

• Joan Kirkpatrick & husband Mike Snider of Wichita, KS — parents of Carl Snider, Nick Snider & wife Mallory

• Helen Grotz of Beloit, KS — mother of Jonah Grotz

•Virginia Kirkpatrick of Newton, KS — mother of Tasha Russell & husband Brandon, and Ashley Karam & husband Justin

• Jim Kirkpatrick of Pittsburgh, KS — father of Ella Kirkpatrick

• Rita Kirkpatrick — sister-in-law

• Nephews — Jake and Paul (Patty) and Kirkpatrick

• Great nieces — Emily, Kate, Paige, Chloe and Angie

• Great nephews — Max, Paxton, Pace, Flint and Elijah

Mary is also lovingly remembered by many great‑nieces, great‑nephews, dear friends, and community members whose lives she brightened.

Per her wishes, a family burial and celebration of Mary’s life will take place at a later date, when she will join her older brother Pat’s ashes on the family farm.

Mary leaves us with this wish:

“Go and enjoy life—do the things you say you are always wanting to do.”

And in true Mary fashion—“cheers.”

Memorial services will be at 1 PM, Thursday, December 11 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place & there will be no visitation. Memorials may be given to the American Red Cross, Mitchell County Food Pantry, or Breast Friends Foundation.