Condolence: Please accept my condolences on the passing of Captain Kirkemo. I was privileged to serve with him while attached to Hatron Two as a Plane Captain from 1960-1963. As an enlisted man we were not close confidants but I greatly admired his professionalism and respected him immensely. Jerry Holman, ADJ2

Condolence: This is a late expression of sympathy in that I have been out of the area and have just found out of your loss. As a neighbor and friend, Lee and Louise helped raise my children here on Mt Baker Circle. They were missed when they had to move to the big city and were only seen at out annual association meeting. My children will also miss seeing them. Hagood "Ziggy" Zeigler

Condolence: There are those who we wish could live forever. Sadly for the ones left behind, that is not possible. Memories will. Warren Luck AO2 VAH2 1961-64 Brisbane, Australia

Condolence: Louise and Family, so sorry to hear of your loss. I know that Lee was a great part of your life. Louise, you were a wonderful friend to my mother for many years. My thoughts are with you all well during this very difficult time. Myra Compton Davis Arlington, Washington

Condolence: Kathy and family, my thoughts are with you at this difficult time. You were always so proud of your dad. I'll always remember my first college roommate and her loving parents and brothers. Let time heal your hearts and cherish the memories. Love, Susan

Condolence: I would like to express my sympathy for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are for you at this difficult time. Sincerely, Doris

Condolence: When we moved to Whidbey Island, Lee Kirkemo was the first person to walk across the street to welcome us and introduce himself. It was our pivilege to be neighbors with the Kirkemos. From the first, Lee was friend. In our community, he was a leader. As we learned more of his history, we saw him as a hero, a leader, a friend and a great neighbor. He was easy to like and to respect. He is greatly missed. Bob and Elsie Palmer

Condolence: I worked at the NAS Service Station on the Seaplane Base from 1976 until 1982. During those years I had the privilege to become acquainted with Captain Kirkemo and Mrs. Kirkemo. I believe them to be two of the most gracious people I ever met. Although I haven't seen either for several years I can tell you that this is a loss for all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Condolence: Louise, Gordon, Curt and Kathy ~ I will be with you in spirit Thursday as you celebrate your father's life and reflect on all that he meant to you and all he accomplished in his long life and military career. His strife dealing with his long illness is over. I am so blessed to have connected with Lee and each of these past 6 years. It has really meant a lot to me. May memories sustain you in the days, weeks and months to come. Peace ~ Fredricka

Condolence: Dad – Gratefully, you have finally been released from your earthly confinements and are now flying free above the clouds. But there will always be a part of you in my heart, and I will miss you dearly. I have been honored and proud to be your daughter. Your love for me has always been unconditional, and for that I’m eternally grateful. I will always be your Little Mouse and my memories of you will comfort me in the days and years ahead. Your amazing legacy now lives on through Molly and your new great-grandchild, Evan. I love you, Dad, with all of my heart, and know that I will see you again someday. Till then, fly free and proud! Naval pilots never die; they just soar to greater heights. All my love, Kathy

Condolence: We are so saddened to learn of Lee's passing. He was a very special man, neighbor and giant among Navy sailors and aviators. Always there to lend a hand (and ladders, tools, etc.)whenever we were able to make it back to Davis Landing. Our children fondly remember both he and Louise as loving adopted grandparents. Our condolences and deepest sympathy to Louise, Butch, Curt, Kathy, Molly and family. With love, Larry, Diana, Kurt, Kristina and family

Condolence: We were so sorry to hear of Lee's passing and want to convey our deepest sympathy to Louise, Kathy, Curtis and Gordon, and all their families. Lee and Louise were friends and mentors to both Gerry and me for many years. We will never forget all the help they both provided. I will always cherish the many hours I was privileged to share the A3 cockpit with the finest pilot in the navy.

Condolence: I'm saddened to hear of the death of Capt. Leland Kirkemo. My heart goes out to Louise, Kathy, Curt & Butch. I know you will miss him, but our memories of him go on. My best memory is of the summer I spent with Kathy in San Diego. We were invited to dine on board Capt. Kirkemo's ship for my first taste of lobster and it was delicious! Leland was a most gracious host.

Condolence: To Mrs. Kirkemo, Kathy and Molly: we were saddened to read of Lee's passing. What an extraordinary life! We'll always remember our visit to the home in Oak Harbor and the stories of Navy life, especially upon hearing that you knew of China Lake since we also lived there as civilians. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the rest of your family at this time. With love, John and Sandy