Dr. Wallace E. (Wally) Kirkpatrick, 83, of Huntsville, AL passed away on December 19, 2019. Dr. Wally Kirkpatrick founded DESE Research in 1982 and served as Chairman and CEO until his passing. DESE is a knowledge-based high technology organization that conducts theoretical and analytical research in the areas of Defense, Energy, Space, and Environment. Dr. Kirkpatrick spent his career developing and supporting ballistic missile defense technologies. He was an advisor to Congress and industry leaders on missile defense issues.
Dr. Kirkpatrick loved Huntsville and served in many volunteer leadership positions across the community including; the Botanical Garden, Hudson Alpha, the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, the United Way, and the Better Business Bureau. Dr. Kirkpatrick served as the Chairman of the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce in 1995 when the 1st BRAC successfully brought the Army Aviation Command to Huntsville. He was an active Rotarian in the Downtown Huntsville Rotary Club.
Dr. Kirkpatrick was surrounded by his devoted family when he passed away. His survivors include his sons, Stephen Kirkpatrick and Michael Kirkpatrick; long-time companion, Norma Jensen; grandchildren, Katie List, Kelley Stolze, Wes Kirkpatrick, and Stephine Zumbach; and great-grandchildren, Levi List, Gwen List, Eden List, Joanie List, Isla Stolze, Leo Stolze, and Walter Zumbach.
A celebration of life service will be held after the holidays. (www.laughlinservice.com)
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association and the United Way.
