Michael Lee Kilburn

Michael Lee “Mike” Kilburn, 72, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away July 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Mike was born February 2, 1954, and raised in Lawrence, Kansas, and graduated from Lawrence High School with the Class of 1972.

Throughout his life, he was known as a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family and lending a helping hand to others.

Mike married Beverly L. in 1973, and together they welcomed a daughter, Brandi Jo (Campbell) McNish of Eudora, Kansas. Although their marriage later ended in divorce.

In 1976, Mike married Brenda Joy C. Together they welcomed twin sons, Brian Lee Kilburn of Topeka, Kansas, and Shawn Michael Kilburn of Topeka, Kansas. They later divorced.

For the past 23 years, Mike shared his life with his devoted longtime companion, Mary Smith, whose love and companionship brought him great happiness.

Mike spent much of his career working in the painting and construction trades. He worked for Stockely in Lawrence for eight years, Fritzel Construction in Lawrence on the paint crew for ten years, and Mayflower Delivery in Oklahoma for five years. Throughout his working years, he was respected for his strong work ethic and dedication. He did work hard and he really enjoyed painting and he was great at it.

In his later years, Mike found his greatest joy in the simple moments of everyday life. He loved taking his grandchildren to school and enjoyed driving Mary and his dear friend, Sybill, to work and medical appointments. These trips became treasured opportunities to visit, laugh, and spend quality time with family and friends. Those moments meant the world to him.

Mike is survived by his children, Brandi Jo (Campbell) McNish, Brian Lee Kilburn, and Shawn Michael Kilburn; his longtime companion, Mary Smith; his stepdaughter, Janett Zabry; his grandchildren, Skyler Zabry (partner Samantha), Ari Zabry, K.K. Zabry, and Hailey Ann Joy Kilburn; his great-granddaughter, Zoey Zabry; his sisters, Rita A. Rockhold, Kelly Hadl-Raby (Chris Raby), and Becky Hadl-Lemon (Brian Lemon); and his brothers, Dennis Hadl and Mark Hadl, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha A. (Foster) Hadl; his stepfather, Edward Hadl; his sister, Sandy Church; and his brother, Bobby Church.

Mike will be remembered for his kind heart, his willingness to help others, his dedication to his family, and the joy he found in spending time with those he loved. His quiet acts of service, sense of humor, and caring nature leave behind lasting memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.