R. Michael "Mike" Kirkland

R. Michael Kirkland (Mike), born March 14, 1945 in Utica NY. Died August 13, 2023 at UT Medical Center. He was a member of Lake Hills Presbyterian Church, where he sang in the Choir for 10 years. He grew up in Rochester NY where he graduated from Greece Olympia High School and Paul Smith's College. He was a chef working in several restaurants around the Rochester area. He raced an Austin Healy Sprite in the SCCA, where he was named NYS Champion 3 years in a row. He also was a flagger at Watkins Glen International Race Way in Upstate NY. Mike became an avid golfer and could be found on the golf course 3-6 days a week. He volunteered to cook for several missions trips including Appalachia and post Katrina. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Betty Kirkland. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Marcia; son, Ken (Lisa Young) Kirkland; granddaughter, Jennifer (Nick) Wilson, great-granddaughter Claira; Brother, Dale (Elaine) Kirkland; neice, Kathy Kirkland. Special Thank you to the Friendsville Volunteer Fire Department for the many years of help, support, and service! In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Pat Summit Foundation, 520 W. Summit Hill Drive, Suite 1101, Knoxville, TN 37902, www.patsummitt.org. Family will receive friends at 5:30 PM Friday, August 25, 2023 at Lake Hills Presbyterian Church, 3805 Maloney Rd, Knoxville, TN 37920 with the Funeral Service to follow. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com