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Kirke C. Quinn, Esteemed Attorney and Devoted Family Man Dies at 74.
Kirke C. Quinn, a brilliant attorney, loyal friend, and proud Iowan, passed away on April 5, 2025, in Ames, Iowa, at the age of 74. Known for his sharp mind, quick wit, and integrity, Kirke could command a courtroom, fill a room with laughter, and make everyone feel like an old friend. Kirke gave his all to everything he did. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the cases he championed, and the family who will carry his memory with pride and love.
Born on December 31, 1950, Kirke was raised on the Quinn Family Farm near Newton, Iowa, where he learned the values of hard work and resilience. A graduate of Newton High School (1969), he earned his B.S. and J.D. from Drake University (1972, 1975), launching a distinguished legal career that spanned just shy of five decades. He was a member of the Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers and served as its resident for a full term. In 1998, he was inducted into the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers during a ceremony in London, an honor that recognized his excellence in the field.
Beyond the courtroom, Kirke found comfort in time spent at the Quinn Family Farm. The work was steady and familiar, and he took pride in keeping the place running, not just as a farm, but as a spot where family and friends could gather, relax, and have fun. He also loved being at the family cabin on Lake of the Woods. An avid golfer, tennis player, and lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, he made annual trips to Sturgis with close friends. Whether in a suit, a Carhartt on the farm, or jeans on a ride, Kirke was always the same man—principled, generous, and loyal.
For all his achievements, Kirke’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was the dad who never missed a game, the grandpa who turned the farm into an adventure, and the man who ensured his daughters knew they could take on the world. His six grandkids—Anna, Georgia, Harper, Bridger, Quinn, and Oliver—knew him as “KK” and “Grandpa Swimming, " the guy who gave the best nicknames, made them laugh the hardest, and let them “drive” long before they had licenses.
Kirke was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy Quinn (née Craven) and Carl Quinn, and his brother, Garry Veber.
He is survived by daughters Dr. Lisa Q. Rucker (Nathan) of Lake Zurich, IL, Kristina Q. Sands (Jonathan) of San Francisco, CA, and Morgan J. Quinn of Boston, MA; brothers Dr. Kent Quinn (Sharon) of Clive, IA, and Gayle Veber (Carol) of Wilsonville, OR; significant other Kathy Thompson; and six beloved grandchildren: Anna B. & Georgia Q. Rucker, Harper, Bridger, & Quinn Sands, and Oliver Quinn, who were the light of his life.
The family invites friends to celebrate Kirke’s life on April 24, 2025, at 1:00 pm at The District Venue: 1350 SW Vintage Avenue, Ankeny, Iowa. Memorial contributions may be made to Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. Kirke’s family wishes to express their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care the staff and volunteers provided during his final days.