Michael Paul Kirton

Michael Paul Kirton, 74, of Dawsonville passed away Friday August 5, 2016 at Northside Forsyth Hospital.

Born January 1, 1942 in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Britton “Kit” and Ruth Kirton, he had lived in Dawson County since 1978 having moved from Lafayette, Louisiana.  He lived a period of time in Fairbanks, Alaska and earned a Masters Degree from the University of Alaska.  Mr. Kirton spent 30 years as a teacher and taught over 20 years in the Dawson County School System where he was affectionately known as “Doc” and was respected for his knowledge of snakes.  He was an avid bird watcher and was an accomplished wildlife artist, having some of his works published by the Arkansas Wildlife Federation.  He wrote and illustrated articles for the Georgia Backroads magazine and was a member of Trinity Church.

Surviving are his wife of 46 years, Pat Kirton, Dawsonville; children, Lysa Deese, Hampton, GA, Britt Kirton, Dawsonville, Julie Kirton and Charity Fulbright, Sacramento, CA; sister, Charlotte Kirton, Dawsonville.

Memorial services will be held Wednesday August 10, 2016 at 4 o’clock at Bearden Funeral Home Chapel.  Rev. Robert Vincent will officiate.

The family will receive friends Wednesday from 3 until 4 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dawson County Christian Firefighters, c/o Paul Cloud, 34 Woods Drive, Dahlonega, GA  30533.

Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.