Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
October 3, 1943 ~ December 30, 2019
Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff, 76, a priest of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, passed away December 30, 2019, after a brief illness. A lifelong resident of Indianapolis, Fr. Kirkhoff was born October 3, 1943, to the late Edward and Rose (McHugh) Kirkhoff. He was ordained a priest on May 24, 1969 and was pleased to have celebrated his Jubilee Mass last May.
He served as an associate pastor of St. Mary in New Albany, St. Jude and St. Ann in Indianapolis, while also teaching at Roncalli and Scecina High Schools. He served as pastor of his home parish, St. Philip Neri from 1978-85 and St. Jude from 1985-2002. In 2002, Fr. Kirkhoff became the pastor of St. Pius X and also sacramental minister at St. Andrew the Apostle. He was the pastor of Good Shepherd from 2010 – 2014 when he retired from active parish ministry. A natural leader, Fr. Jerry served as the dean of the Indianapolis East, South, and North Deaneries through the years. For many years, he was the Vicar for the Advocacy for Priests, Director for the Archdiocesan Mission Office and Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Most recently, Fr. Jerry served as the Vicar for the Retired Priests of the Archdiocese.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Kirkhoff; sister-in-law, Susann Kirkhoff; brother-in-law, Fritz Leucht; great nephew, Nicholas Kirkhoff.
Survivors include his sister, Joan Leucht; niece, Marni (Steve) Fey; nephews, Mike, Jeff (Tina), Kevin (Julie), and Mark (Teresa) Kirkhoff; several great nieces and nephews.
All services for Fr. Jerry Kirkhoff will be held at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, 1347 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. Reception of the Body will begin at 3 p.m., Sunday, January 5, 2020. Visitation will be Sunday, 3 – 7 p.m. Visitation will conclude with the Vigil Service at 7 p.m. Additional visitation will be held from 9:30 – 11 a.m., Monday, January 6, 2020. The Funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, with interment following in the Priests’ Circle at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Shelter, to Scecina Memorial High School, or to St. Paul Hermitage; envelopes will be available. O’Riley Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Friends and Family uploaded 1 to the gallery.
Father Kirkhoff literally got me through high school. I had received a stipend from a car accident when I was in 8th grade, and that money paid for my tuition to Scecina High School. Father Kirkhoff graciously oversaw that account for me, and that was a VERY important step in my life. My heart goes out to his family, which extends deeply in Indianapolis. The world has lost a great man. – Jim Karres
“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy.” Matt 15:21 A good and faithful priest. May he rest in peace. Norb Schott Roachdale
I would personally like to extend my condolences to Jerry’s sister Joan.., as well as to the people of Indianapolis. I grew up on Oakland Ave in St Philip Neri as did the Kirkhoff family. Jerry was frequently at our home as he shared a close friendship with my brother Lon. I could share a few memories of the Kirkoffs but I suspect several of you have funny and memorable moments of their sense of community and friendship in our little “neighborhood of love”. Jerry will be missed but the best part of him is inside of all of us.. Reach-out, support, respect , smile and say thank you. Patty Nees Klanac
My senior year at Scecina I was 2 credits short of graduating Father made a phone call got my credits from Howe night school I graduated with the class of 75 thanks to this Saint
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Father you wit will be greatly miss RIP
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Tell my Dad we love him please, I’m sure you’ll find him at Jesus’s knee when you are welcomed home.
Rest in Peace Rev. Kirkhoff. You left us with so many nice memories of you. God gave us an angel when he gave us you..
This news breaks my heart. Father Gerry was not only a great priest, but one of the finest men that I had the pleasure of knowing. He was bot only my priest but he also taught my RCIA group 19 years ago, he baptized not only me, but my 3 children as well. I would still often see him when he would come for breakfast at a restaurant I worked at. He always had a smile on his face and an open heart to all. Heaven gained a beautiful soul! You’ll will be greatly missed my friend.
FATHER GERARLD KIRKOFF REST IN PEACE. YOU GREAT FATHER ,AND GREAT TEACHER WE HAD AT SCECINA MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL. AND YOU GOING TO BE MISS .AND PERSON TOO.
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Fr. Jerry helped form me as a young Catholic School Principal at St. Pius X. He taught me to see a situation from a broader view and find God in the midst. He stood by me during difficult times, both professional and personal. Fr. Jerry was such a blessing to me and I will always be grateful for having known him
Father Gerry performed the eulogies for my father and mother. He was the best.
He was truely one of a kind and will be missed by many. He always had the right words.
Fr. Jerry was a very nice man. He always had a smile on his face. He will be missed.
Fr. Jerry was the most supportive and encouraging boss I have ever had. Though he could be tough, he allowed his staff to do their jobs and he would stand by us even if he didn’t always agree with our decisions. He made the hard decisions for the best of our parish, not worrying if it would make him popular. I was blessed to have remained friends, meeting for lunch, dinner, and always touching base on special occasions. His loss leaves a huge hole in my heart. Joan, please know of my sorrow for you and the family. My prayers are with you.
We will always remember the laughter he brought to the lunch table. We will have some chicken noodle soup in your honor. We will miss you. Steve and Helen James
Father was so much help to me when my brother, Father Voelker, passed. My symphony goes to all his family and friends. Prayers!
Father Jerry was a savior at a very difficult time in my life. His kindness and forgiveness have always made him so special to me. May he rest in peace and know I will always cherish his memory. Rosie Secor
Mark and Jeff so sorry to hear about Father Jerry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family.
Fr. Jerry Kirkhoff provided service and care for the Church in Indianapolis for over 50 years. His vigilance to multiple parishes, Scecina H.S. and departments within the Archdiocese gave much to all whom he served. As a parishioner of his during his days at St.Pius X, I benefitted from his devotion to us. God bless you, Father
I can’t believe Father Kirchhoff passed away. Unlike many parishioners, I only met the father at the different masses that I officiate for a few months in my parish. I always saw him smile, he had that smiles that were contagious. Rest in peace.
I recall serving mass with Jerry when he was in the seminary. He always had a smile and would keep us younger guys from embarrassing ourselves in front of the parish. I probably hadn’t seen or spoken with Jerry in at least 30 or more years when I heard he retired. I called him and was so happy I did. A lovely, caring man. I am deeply sorry for the family’s loss of Jerry but I’m certain he’s with God now.
Father Kirckoff was a big help to me during a family crisis, as well as helping me get through a serious illness. My thoughts are with his family.
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Mike, Marni, Jeff, Kevin & Mark: having known Fr Jerry a long time, I always considered him to be part of my family, since Susann was my first cousin, and married to Bob! Lots of wonderful memories thru the years; too many to mention! As I grow older now, I’ve come to “treasure” those who are dear to me, as was Jerry and Bob and I pray when the day comes for me to go home, Jerry, Bob Susann & my parents will be there to greet me! God Bless all of them and May their souls Rest In Peace! Love Janice & JJ
Father was the priest at Scecina when I was there 75-79. He was a truly wonderful priest. I didn’t become a devout Catholic until I was in I was in high school. It was because of the teachings, the Senior Retreat and the contributions of Fr. Jerry. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Thank you for comforting and supporting our family during our time of need when my mom was missing. Five weeks you spent you’re time with us! Thank you & you will be missed.
God rest his soul.
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Fr. Jerry was a great supporter of my missionary life. He was kind and caring. I always enjoyed his down to earth perspective and advice. I will miss him. So happy I was able to be at his jubilee last May. My deepest sympathy to his family and the people of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. He was a good a faithful priest who will be missed. Here in Uganda, we offered Mass for him as soon as we received the notice of his death. As he lived in the light of Christ, I know he now rests pain free in the glorious life of God. And he’s smiling.
Father Kirkhoff was a priest’s priest. So kind, so full of wit, and had a way with words that is beyond compare. I cherish all the fabulous homilies I heard him deliver and the way in which he made me want to deepen my relationship with God and our faith. May he rest in peace and may he be greeted by a multitude of angels, saints, and good-heart souls at the pearly gates, just like him. Rosemarie Kelly
I was baptized and grew up at St. Jude. Fr. Gerry blessed my faith with many great homilies. Pray for us in God’s kingdom Fr.Gerry. I pray for the comfort of your family and friends at this time.
Father Kirkhoff was one of my favorite priest. No matter how much time passed between the times I’d see him (sometimes years), he’d always call me by my name. He was so kind and gentle, his smile was contagious and his faith was deep as the ocean and as high as
Heaven..and thankfully he shared it with everyone. Rest in peace, Father Jerry, you will truly be missed.
Fr. Jerry was such a friendly, personable, loving and faithful man. He had a warm smile to greet you. I admired and respected him greatly. I appreciated being seated with him on a few occasions at Catholic Center gatherings and chatting with him. Remembering him brings a smile to my face. Fr. Jerry, thank you for your faith, your leadership. You will be greatly missed!
My sympathy is extended to the Kirkhoff family.
Fr. Kirkoff Baptist’s my brother and I back in 1998.
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
Fr Jerry was amazing. When I first started youth ministry at SPN, he was at every funeral held there. He was a good role model as he was always with the people. In his later years, he spent much time at Our Lady of Grace Monastery helping us out and he was always kind and had a great sense of humor. We will miss him.
Prayers to the Kirchhoff family. Father Jerry was always there for the people and made everyone feel welcomed. He will truly be missed.
I loved Father Kirkhoff and his smile. You could tell he loved being a priest and that his love of the Lord and his church was his first priority. He had a gift for cutting through all of the distractions to get to what was important. If God has favorites, Father Kirkhoff would have to be one of them. He will always be one of mine – Mark Hannasch
I grew up on the same block as Father Jerry . He was about 5 years older than me . My fondest memory of him is how when my friend and I would be jumping rope he would come out and join us . He would sing and jump rope he was really a good rope jumper . He was always so friendly and kind . Always had a great smile and twinkling eyes . He exuded Gods love all . He will be missed by many .
Father Kirkhoff was a kind and gentle soul, who made all of us feel welcome in the church. I will always remember that twinkle in his eyes when he smiled. We were blessed to have him preside at our wedding 20 years ago. He was also dear friend of my parents, so it is fitting that he passed away just a few days before my mom. I am sure he was there to guide her and through heavens gate and help her to feel welcome as he did here on earth. He was loved and will be greatly missed by those of us left behind.
I met Father Kirkoff when my youngest sister attended St. Philip Neri school. I found my peace in the church, and he and Sister Gwen lead me on my journey towards my relationship with God. He baptized me April 10, 1982, an my journey continues today. You will be missed my many, and we will see you again one day.
Requiescat in pace. Father Jerry was a personal friend and cherished priest during my years as a member of St. Ann’s parish in Indianapolis. That relationship had continued throughout our lives. He will be sorely missed along with his gentle touch and enduring, caring demeanor. Such a touch of class. Now he enjoys his promised reward in the loving, caring arms of his Father.
Lit a candle in memory of Rev. Gerald J. Kirkhoff
You will always be loved for your smile and support you have given others through the years. You were there when my husband passed away and gave me support and words during that time. You will always be loved and missed by all that knew you. Rest in Peace Fr. Jerry
Love you Father GERARLD Kirkoff and great person and great friend too
I walked home from St Philip School with Father Gerry every day years ago. He was always fun to talk to. I know he is in heaven! Helen Adams
Father Gerry will be missed. Even though our interaction was at St. Roch when he filled in for Father Wilmouth, he made me feel important. I shocked him a few years ago at reconciliation when I told him how long it had been since my last confession. He tried to hide his surprise but I saw it in his face.
Rev.Gerald kirkhoff was at scecina high , school when I. Went there to attendschool .he was a caring person,he will be greatly missed.May be rest in peace, tv
Kirkhoff Family, Our condolences on the death of a great man and priest. The Roger Branigan family
Fr Jerry and I have been friends for over 30 years. We took the Train to Chicago to have Lunch at Burghoff’s, and he enjoyed going out to dinner. Jerry was a Brother Priest, friend, mentor, whom I could always trust with sound advice and good humor. I will miss you my friend, and I know you’ll be there to welcome me when my time comes. Rest In Peace Jerry.
Father Kirkoff married my wife and I at the new St. Ann’s Church on S. McClure St. Our wedding was in October 1970, approaching fifty years ago this year. Father Kirkoff will be missed by everyone who knew him. My sincere condolences to his Family and Friends. May he Rest in Peace forever and ever.
Father Jerry, you will be so missed. My husband, and you, were rocks for me when my father passed away. You challenged me to write his eulogy, a challenge I did not want to accept. However, I eventually embraced the “opportunity” and wrote one. Father Jerry, you pushed me so far beyond my comfort zone, but it was the best thing to heal a long-time rift in my family. You were a true friend to me and many others. I will miss you immensely.
This truly brings tears and breaks my heart. Father Kirkhoff has been there for our family since way back at Scecina High School and St. Philip Neri. Any time our family needed him he was right there without hesitation. The night before Ashlee went into her one and only surgery, he came to Riley Hospital late at night after he had already been being busy the whole day just so he could baptize her and pray over her before she went in first thing in the morning. After her surgery he came back to pray over her some more. Any time we lost someone in our family (so many times) he was there to guide us and support us on a moment’s notice. Today I hope he hears my heart thanking him for his years of unselfish service to our family and the countless others he has touched. Rest in Heaven Father Kirkhoff and thank you so much for your years of friendship and spiritual guidance.