Alvin Lee Kirk

Alvin Lee Kirk, born in March 1954 in Arizona, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 14, 2025 at his home in Simi Valley, CA. This unexpected passing was a surprise to all, and he will be missed by his friends and family.

Al was preceded in death by his brothers Wane and Darryl Opliger and his mother Judy Ratzlaff. He is survived by his loving wife Rosa Vega and her family, with whom he was very close, in-laws Daniel and Teresa, Rosa’s siblings Erika (husband Nick and son Jayms) and Gerardo (wife Erica, children Destiny and Chris, and daughter Anahi, Al’s beloved goddaughter), Al’s sons Lloyd and Brendan Kirk, sisters Karla Corky Mitchell, Gayla Judd, Aunt’s Dotsy and Shirley, sister-in-law Peggy Sand (husband Dean, children Amber and Dylan) and all of his fellow union brothers.

One highlight of Al’s childhood was when he spent a few years living with his beloved grandparents, Momo and Pawpaw, in Lake Charles, LA. He often talked about his fond memories of those years. He joined the Army in 1971 just before his 18th birthday, serving for 3 years in Korea as a mechanic before being honorably discharged in 1974.

Al began working in the glass industry in Tacoma, Washington with his brother Wane. Despite his lack of experience, his first employer took a chance on him, a gesture Al never forgot. He then moved to Eureka, California, where he met his first wife, Karen. They started a glass business together and had two sons, Lloyd and Brendan. The birth of his sons was one of the happiest moments in Al’s life, he was excited to be a father.

After his first marriage ended, Al met Rosa Vega. They moved to Simi Valley, California to be close to the boys. During this time, Al joined the Local 636 and became a union glazier. He spent the next years on projects all over Southern California, notably the Air Force One exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. He was proud of the work he was doing and of his accomplishments. Though the work was challenging and exhausting, it was rewarding and he made many friends.

After retiring, Al spent his time remodeling his house and discovered new pastimes. He volunteered for the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and the U.S. Veterans, enjoyed going on bike rides and was learning how to pay the guitar.

He enjoyed several trips abroad that opened his mind and showed him new perspectives. He also celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary with Rosa.

Those who knew him will remember his humor and spirit. He was a character, a presence, a gregarious individual with charm and the ability to make friends just about anywhere. If you had the chance to catch him at the poker table, you would remember his lively jokes and crass wit. He was an extremely talented and creative builder and loved his craft. He also loved fishing, the occasional outdoor adventure, and spending time with family and friends. He will be missed, but his spirit will live on in our hearts.

Memorial arrangements for Al will be shared with family and friends in the coming days.