Jack W. Hirst

Jack W. Hirst, 82, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on July 23, 2020. At Jack’s request, he will be cremated and a celebration of life will follow at a later date.

Jack was born in Independence, Missouri on July 27, 1937 to Bill and LaVern Hirst. He studied carpentry and graduated from Manual Vocational Academy in 1955. Following graduation, he spent three years farming with his uncle. He then joined the United States Army and served from February 1958 to November 1960 as a diesel mechanic. He later joined the Independence, Missouri Fire Department, where he happily served his community for almost 30 years, retiring in 1993 as a District Chief. He was frequently referred to the “Jack Of All Trades” as there were very few things that he didn’t excel at.

On July 28, 1961, Jack married the love of his life, Ruth “Mavoy” Hawkins. Together, they raised three children, two daughters and a son. Following his retirement, Jack spent much of his time fishing. He and his wife usually spent their winters traveling to Texas and their summers camping and enjoying friends in Warsaw, Missouri.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his loving wife; brother, Pete Hirst; sister, Anita Hain; son, Michael (Cindy) Hirst; daughters, Andrea Abel (John Poland) and Angel (Steve) Carleton; grandchildren, Brianna Abel (Austin Stone), Dakota Abel (Brittany Schulenberg), Riley (Ariana) Hirst, Aayden Carleton, Tanner Carleton, Rayne Monteer; great-granddaughters, Evelyn Abel, Emalyn Johnson, Madalyn Ashley; and many extended family members.

Arrangements:  Royer’s New Salem, Independence, MO   816-796-8600