Kirk Robb Emerson

Kirk Emerson, 65, passed away unexpectedly, leaving a deep and lasting absence in the lives of his family, friends, and the Holland community he so deeply impacted. A teacher, coach, father, and proud Papa, Kirk had a way of leaving his mark wherever he went. A deeply respected member of the Holland community, Kirk spent many years shaping young lives as a teacher and coach. To countless students and athletes, he was a mentor — someone who challenged, encouraged, and believed in them. To colleagues and friends, he was thoughtful, creative, and genuine. And to anyone lucky enough to spend time with him socially, he was known for his humor, his presence, and his undeniable ability to turn any gathering into a good party. Kirk was as real as they come. He never beat around the bush, always said what he meant, and was famously stubborn. Yet it was precisely this honesty and resolve that made him so respected and trusted. He stood up for what was right and was a fierce advocate for those who could not protect themselves. Along with earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio-Television Broadcasting, Kirk had a passion for art, film, music, literature, and sports. These passions led him to a career spanning more than 20 years in education. He served as a high school English and Film teacher and soccer coach at both Roosevelt High School in East Los Angeles and Holland High School. He founded the girls’ Varsity Soccer program at Roosevelt and helped establish the ESL program at Holland High — lasting contributions that reflected his belief in opportunity, inclusion, and education for all. A lifelong fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes, Kirk wore that loyalty proudly. Fall Saturdays mattered. The Buckeyes mattered. And if Kirk were here to say one last thing, it would be simple and unmistakable: Beat Michigan. Above all, Kirk was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his children Chris, Ryan (Sheyra), and Lauren (Brad); his daughter-in-law, Lilah; and his cherished grandchildren Stella, Kalin, Adaline, Rylee, Eliah, and McKenzie — each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his brothers Michael (Linda) and Derek (Mary-Ann), along with extended family, lifelong friends, former students, athletes, and an entire community who will miss him deeply. Kirk was preceded in death by his parents and step-parents, his beloved son Marc, his wife Karen, and his nephew Oliver. Kirk will be remembered for his heart, his humor, his honesty, his hard-earned wisdom, and the lasting impact he had on everyone who knew him. In true Kirk fashion, his wishes were never for a traditional service, but instead for a party — a celebration of life filled with stories, music, and laughter — which will be held at Skiles (Holland, MI) on January 5 at 5:00 p.m. The following poem, “The Winning Tree,” was written by Kirk and reflects his lifelong love for The Ohio State Buckeyes — matched only by his disdain for the Wolverines. The Winning Tree Written by Kirk Emerson At the tree of winning The Wolverine is trying to make a home But the Buckeyes on the tree Won’t leave him alone. They’re falling on his head He’s trying to get away, But there is no escape From the Mighty Mr. Hayes. Mr. Hayes is the mighty one For he is King in the fall. His Buckeyes are so super And he is head of them all. He is the No. 1 boss And always will be, For nobody can knock him off The Winning Tree Many have tried, And many have failed. When will nature quit? Nobody can tell. Here comes the wind Which brings many a foe. Trying to get on the top limb, Where the Buckeyes are in a row. The Buckeyes don’t budge, not a bit. The hopeless enemy, will have to quit. They’re weary and very beat, And will have to retreat. This story is repeated Over and over once again. Because nobody can beat The Buckeyes power regiment. Once more the Fall season is done. The Wolverine is out in the cold. For nobody can beat Mr. Hayes, Not even Mr. Bo. The story is all done As you can see. But Mr. Hayes will always remain, On The Winning Tree.

Tributes

Kirk Robb Emerson

October 8, 1959 - December 8, 2025