It is with sadness that we announce the passing of NEITA KIRK (née Wickett) on Friday, December 5, 2025 at the age of 100 years.

Left to mourn are her children, Lachlan (Cecile), Leland, Cameron (Christina), Sandy (Mike), and Rod; as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Don; her sisters, Erbena and Jeanette; her brothers, Clarence, Donald, Marvin, and Wyman; and her daughter-in-law, Barb.

Neita was born in New Liskeard, Ontario to Fred and Sarah Wickett, the sixth of seven children. From early childhood, she loved the outdoors. Photos albums are filled with pictures of a young Neita hiking, tenting, climbing trees, riding bicycles, and picnicking, always with her family and friends.

It was during these early years that she started to develop her knack for making something from nothing. Whether cooking, sewing, knitting, or gardening, Neita was able to take a few simple things and turn them into something remarkable.

After a short time working as a school teacher, Neita discovered a new path and graduated from Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children Nursing School in 1948. She soon made her way to Peace River to work alongside her sister, Jeanette. It was in Peace River that she met Don Kirk, a young RCMP officer whose barracks were a short walk from the nurses’ residence.

Don and Neita married in 1952. A year later, the couple welcomed twins, Lachlan and Leland. As the RCMP took Don and Neita to communities across Alberta, the family grew. Cameron and Sandy were welcomed while posted in Hardisty, with Rod rounding out the family in Edmonton. After postings in Pincher Creek and Fort Macleod, the family would eventually settle in Lethbridge.

While living in Pincher Creek, Neita and Don saw a long-held dream made real by purchasing a parcel of land and building a family cabin beside the Castle River. Their children will forever remember the times at the cabin, with days spent hunting and fishing, hiking and horseback riding, swimming and berry picking. It was here that they, too, would develop a love of the outdoors.

Neita enjoyed gathering at the cabin with her family and friends, something she did even into her nineties. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren are grateful to have grown up enjoying their own times at the cabin, many of which have included Neita, who was always up for a bit of fun. The cabin remains a place where family and friends meet and escape to the outdoors.

Neita’s life will be celebrated this summer at a gathering at the family cabin she loved so dearly.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Good Samaritan West Highlands for the care they provided Neita.

 

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

• Date : 2025-12-05
• Location : Alberta