Wesley Kirkpatrick, a devoted father, grandfather, uncle, great uncle and friend passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9 at Capital Health Medical Center with his family by his side. He was 86 years old.

Born on October 28, 1939, in Syracuse, New York, Wes grew up in Winter Haven, Florida. He attended the University of Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and was a proud, four-year letterman as a Football Equipment Manager. He later earned his M.B.A. from the University of Southern California, setting the foundation for a successful career.

Wes enjoyed a distinguished 22-year career with Johnson & Johnson, retiring in 1993 as Director of Professional Sales at the J&J Consumer Products Company. He held key roles in sales, product management and sales management, earning multiple sales awards and the admiration of colleagues throughout the industry.

Beyond his career, Wes dedicated nearly 50 years to volunteering at Nottingham High School in Hamilton, NJ, where his contributions were recognized as he was inducted into the school’s inaugural Sports Hall of Fame. He was also honored by the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame with the Amateur Football Award, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport and his community.

A true adventurer at heart, Wes found joy in traveling the world. He achieved his goal of visiting all 50 states and explored numerous countries, including journeys through Europe, Thailand, Nepal, Africa and New Zealand. Among his favorite destinations were Alaska and Scotland. He also visited nearly 50 National Parks, always eager to experience the beauty of nature.

Above all, Wes’ greatest love was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, especially being an active and devoted presence in the lives of his six grandchildren. His warmth, wisdom, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Predeceased by his parents Wesley and Dorothy Kirkpatrick and his brother Donald. He is survived by the mother of his children, Jane Erickson, his son and daughter-in-law: Michael and Susanne Kirkpatrick of Bradley Beach, NJ and his daughter and son-in-law: Kristine and Carl Downey of Bel Air, MD. Six grandchildren: Ryan, Kiley and Timothy Kirkpatrick and Thomas, Sean and Samantha Downey. Nephews: Daniel his wife Lindsey and David his wife Mercy and great nieces and nephews: Keisha and husband Ben, David, Kinsley, Lincoln, Matthew and wife Paola, Emily, Theodore, Beckham, and many dear friends

A visitation with the family will be held at Peppler Funeral Home located at 122 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown, NJ from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, May 28. A service will be held on Friday, May 29 at First Presbyterian Church of Bordentown located at 420 Farnsworth Avenue, Bordentown, NJ at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Nottingham High School Student Activities Account in his honor. Please send donations to Nottingham High School Main Office located at 1055 Klockner Road, Mercerville, NJ 08619.

Wes leaves behind a legacy of dedication, adventure, and love. His impact on his family, friends and community will never be forgotten.