Albert Jay Kirn, Jr. “Gooch”, age 53, of Poplar, MT completed his journey and smiled upon seeing the face of the Lord. He departed from his beloved children, grandchildren, family and friends on Friday, January 7, 2011 at his home in Poplar.
Gooch was born on December 27, 1957, the second eldest son of Albert and Betty (Lizotte) Kirn Sr. He spent all of his life in Poplar and graduated from Poplar High School in 1976, where he excelled in basketball and football. He was a member of the State Class A Basketball teams of 1974-1976. He was named MVP in State Class A Basketball in 1975. All state selection in 1974-1975 and all conference and state in football.
Gooch spent a number of years working in the oil fields with his dad and brothers, Dana and Chad. More recently years he worked alongside his favorite aunt, Blue Eyes (Gary), and cousins Joleen and Mike Kirn, helping with the farm and tending to the cows.
He enjoyed hunting, fixing cars, and hanging out with his friends. Gooch especially enjoyed being with his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his longtime companion and friend of 30 years, Connie Bird of Poplar; children, Ajaye (Cahann), Kristin (Adam), Stevie, and Albert J. Kirn (Boy) all of Poplar, Trudy (Brian) Eder, and Malachi Chopper both of Brockton, MT; grandchildren, Malaya, Kwyn, Kylie, Kacie Lou, Kali, Jasmine, Brian Jr, Hally, Aiyanna, and Makayla Longtree; siblings, Maria (Bill) Decker of Billings, MT, Desiree (Bernard) Lambert of Brockton, Chris Kirn of Dallas, TX, Curry (Lori) Kirn, and Chad (Marcella) Kirn both of Poplar; grandmother, Mrs. Nellie Kirn of Sidney, MT; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Gooch is preceded in death by his grandson, Kash Jay Escarsega; parents, Albert and Betty Kirn; grandfather Gilbirt Kirn; best buddy and brother, Dana (Monk); and a cousin, Michael Kirn.
“When tomorrow starts without him, we know we’re not far apart. For every time we think of him, we know he is in our hearts.”(by unknown)
His children, grandchildren, family, and friends will always lovingly remember Gooch.
A vigil will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 11, at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Poplar. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 12, also at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Poplar. Interment will follow at the Poplar City Cemetery in Poplar.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevensonandsons.com. Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point has been entrusted with the arrangements.