Jason James Kirkwood (Engstrom) aka 'Kirkbird', 39, of Superior died Wednesday March 19, 2014.

Jason was born September 17, 1974 in Superior, the son of Cindy (Kirkwood) Engstrom and was later adopted by his father, Gary Engstrom.

He was a 1993 graduate of Superior Senior High. He married Stacie Mosack in 1994 and they had three children, Halee, Anna, and Jon Kirkwood. He enlisted in the Army in 1993 and completed basic training in Fort Benning, Ga. From 1994 to 1997 he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry (Tropic Lightning) in Oahu, Hawaii. After that he served in the Wisconsin National Guard's 950th Engineer Battalion. In 2003 he was deployed to Iraq with the Bravo Company 724th Engineering Platoon and in 2010, he was deployed to Iraq with the 950th Engineering Platoon under 157th MEB. After 20 years of service to his country, he retired from the military as a Staff Sergeant E-6, in 2013.

He also worked for many years as an electrician at Advantage Security Systems in Superior.

Most recently, Jason was happy to start school this January at WITC and was studying Industrial Maintenance.  He waited over 20 years to use his GI bill, and was very dedicated to school.

Jason was a brave and decorated soldier, but he was so much more than that! He was a father, a son, a big brother, cousin, and a friend. He meant the world to so many people. His charismatic smile and attitude could light up the room. He had a love for life that was infectious and he was always good for a laugh or a 'kirk' bird call.

He is survived by his children, Halee, Anna, and Jon Kirkwood; father, Gary Engstrom; sister and brother in-law, Melissa and Lee Gardner; grandma, Pat Engstrom; many aunts, uncles, cousins and a new baby niece, Loula Gardner, who he was happy to meet last month.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Cindy Lou (Kirkwood) Engstrom; grandparents, Delores and James Kirkwood, and Robert Engstrom; and many other loved ones.

Services will be held Wednesday March 26, at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Superior. Visitation begins at 10 until the 11 a.m. service. Chaplin Scott Bauer & Pastor Will Mowchan will co-officiate.  Inurnment to follow at Greenwood Cemetery.  Downs  Funeral Home, 1617 N. 19 ^th Street, Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements.