Van Evers Kirkpatrick Remembered for His Musical Legacy

Georgetown, Texas, October 26, 2025

News Summary

Van Evers Kirkpatrick, a dedicated musician and WWII veteran, passed away in Georgetown, Texas, leaving behind a legacy in music and education. Born in Texas, he excelled in trumpet performance and served with distinction in the Army. After the war, he founded an orchestra, taught music for several years, and participated actively in his local community. His life reflected a deep passion for music and commitment to family, making a lasting impact on those around him.

Georgetown, Texas – Van Evers Kirkpatrick, 95, Remembered for His Musical Legacy and Service

Van Evers Kirkpatrick, a lifelong music enthusiast and a World War II veteran, passed away on February 27, 2014, at the age of 95 in Georgetown, Texas. His remarkable life was filled with music, dedication, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born on June 28, 1918, in Hillsboro, Texas, Van was the son of Lee Evers Kirkpatrick and Van Kirkpatrick. His family moved to Austin when he was just 8 years old, a transition that allowed him to cultivate his passion for music.

Van graduated from Austin High School in 1936, where he distinguished himself as an exceptional trumpet player and was part of a national contest-winning trumpet trio. His talent led him to pursue a music major at The University of Texas.

A Distinguished Academic and Military Career

During his time at the university, he became involved with the Longhorn Band and was instrumental in establishing the first chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi at UT, later receiving a trophy for his attendance and service during the 1939-40 school year. After graduating in May 1942, Van was drafted into the Army and served for two years at Camp Hulen in Palacios, Texas. His musical talents shone through as he played trumpet in camp bands and performed for Hollywood stars like Rita Hayworth.

He was eventually deployed to Europe with the 20th Armored Division, where he participated in the liberation of several major cities, including Nurnberg, Munich, Salzberg, and Dachau. After the war, Van spent five weeks in Antwerp, Belgium, performing with the Special Services Band before returning home.

Musical Career and Family Life

Post-war, Van took charge of the record department at the University Co-op and founded the Van Kirkpatrick Orchestra, a big band that traveled and performed throughout Texas. He married Lillian Franks on June 4, 1948, and their early years together included starting a family and moving to Corpus Christi in 1956 to manage Kelly’s Music Store.

Transitioning to education, Van dedicated part of his life to teaching as a high school band director. He spent ten years at Palacios High School, five years at Yoakum High School, and five years at Leander High School. Alongside teaching, he earned a Master’s Degree in Music Education. Even after retiring in 1979, he remained active, participating in high school band activities and serving as a proud member of the Longhorn Alumni Band.

A Life Filled with Passion and Family

Van continued his love for music throughout his life, attending performances by renowned artists like Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. Alongside music, he developed hobbies in genealogy, photography, reading, and taking road trips. His family includes his devoted wife Lillian, their children Karen and Max Werkenthin III, Mark Kirkpatrick, Susan and Joe Prewitt, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family expressed gratitude to the staff at Hearthstone Health Center for their compassionate care during Van’s five-year stay and acknowledged Hospice Compassus for their support in his final week.

Memorial Services

A visitation was held on March 2, 2014, at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel, concluding with a memorial service celebrating Van’s rich life at 1:30 PM. Graveside services were conducted at Live Oak Cemetery in Manacha, Texas, at 3:30 PM, providing a final farewell to a man who left behind a legacy of music, service, and love.

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• Dignity Memorial: Van Kirkpatrick
• Wikipedia: Van Kirkpatrick
• Legacy: Lillian Kirkpatrick Obituary
• Google Search: Van Kirkpatrick
• Dignity Memorial: William Richard Thomas
• Google Scholar: Van Kirkpatrick
• Dignity Memorial: Van Kirkpatrick
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Van Kirkpatrick
• Legacy: Lillian Kirkpatrick Obituary
• Google News: Van Kirkpatrick

Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

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