Donald Kirchhoff

Jul 6, 2021

Donald E. Kirchhoff passed away peacefully in Anchorage, Alaska, at age 98, with family by his side. He was born in 1923, in Rochester, N.Y. After graduating from high school in 1941, he enlisted in the Army Air Corp during World War II and piloted C-46 and C-47 transport planes based out of New Guinea and the Philippines. After the war, he completed his college education at John Carroll University and the University of Rochester, and soon after found his calling as a beloved history teacher in the Rochester City School District.

He and his wife, Lois, moved to Alaska in 2019 to be closer to their sons, Matt and Mark, in their final years.

Don always said he was proud of four things: his military service during the war, his 30-plus years teaching at Jefferson, Madison and East high schools in Rochester; his 66 years of marriage to his wife Lois; and his three boys, Mark, Matt and Paul.

Don is predeceased by his parents, Oscar and Loretta; and brothers, Warren and Oscar Jr. He is survived by his wife, Lois; three sons, Mark (wife Barbara), Matt (wife Patty) and Paul (wife Barbie); sister, Judy (husband Tom); and many loving nephews, nieces, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a teacher and mentor his entire life, and his optimism and caring nature will be greatly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, well-wishers are encouraged to plant a tree, support a World War II veterans' organization, or donate to the charity of one's choice. A memorial service will be held in Rochester in October, time and day TBD. Condolences can be sent to the Kirchhoff family at: 2801 Kingfisher Drive, Anchorage, AK 99502.