Kirk Traxler

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kirk Louis Traxler, who left this world on May 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 52 years old and a cherished resident of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Born on December 5, 1972, to Eula Jewel (Traxler) Rundles and Collins Roby, Kirk was raised in St. Paul, where he attended Maxfield Elementary. Kirk's family moved to Minneapolis, where he attended Northeast Middle School before obtaining his GED.

Kirk had a way of lighting up every room he entered. It wasn't only with his smile but with his undeniable charisma. A true casanova, he had an effortless charm that made him beloved by many, especially the ladies. That is how he wooed Jamela Kyles and blessed our family with their three children. Kirk met Kateri Palacio, and they had two children; they were married on February 14, 2002. Kirk continued to enjoy watching his five children blossom into adults and parents through his 8 grandchildren.

Kirk's love for cooking and creating great moments through food led him to become a chef and caterer. It wasn't a family BBQ unless Kirk was on the grill with his serious look, telling people "not to touch the grill." Kirk opened several small ventures, but his break came when he was awarded a microgrant for catering and developed his education and work for major companies such as Humanity Alliance and House of Charity. Whether feeding family, friends, or strangers, no gathering went without delicious food and great company.

Kirk is survived by his mother, Eula Jewel (Johnny) Rundles II, and father, Collins (Ella) Roby, Christopher Charles Traxler, Matthew Traxler, Johnna Jean Rundles, and Johnny Eugene Rundles III, a host of sisters, aunts, uncles, and countless cousins who adored him. His legacy lives on through his beloved children: Kirtriece Kyles Traxler, Julian Traxler, Kirk Traxler, Kira Traxler, and Amara Traxler. He was also a proud grandfather to Kamern Kyles-Hampton, Kali Kyles-Hampton, Marley Bolden, Khloe Bolden, Faye Kateri Churcher, Jaida Traxler, Morocco Bolden, and Khorie Kyles.

Kirk was preceded in death by his grandparents: Willie Sr. and Ellie B. Traxler, as well as his aunts: Celestine Banmore, Patricia Traxler, Dorren Traxler, and Vickie Steele, and his uncle, Willie Traxler Jr., cousins: Keith Johnson, Roosevelt Jermaine Traxler, Kendrick Traxler, Lil Robert Molin, Adolphus Johnson, and Keenan Johnson.

Kirk's love, laughter, and passion for life will forever be remembered by those who knew him. His legacy as a dedicated family man and an exceptional cook will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of sharing his signature spinach and rice.

Rest in love, Kirk (Wiener). We know that you are sitting on a beach on your eternal vacation.