Dennis Kirkwood

Dennis Kirkwood, 75, passed away Friday, January 25 at his home in Lake Mary, Florida. He was born May 12, 1944, to Vivian and Thomas Kirkwood in Providence, Rhode Island.

Dennis led a life of curiosity and knowledge seeking. He served in the U.S. military during Vietnam from 1967 - 1969 as a 1st Lieutenant in the 101st Airborne Division of the Army and received the Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and 2 OS bars. After his military service he and his wife, Susan, started Cheddar Corkscrew and Sons wine and cheese shop in Longwood, FL. That shop blossomed into a well regarded full-service catering company, Bon Appetit. He was a guild-certified sommelier and in 1977 was one of the founding members of the Alliance of Sommeliers, Orlando chapter and subsequent president for many years. Dennis had a passion for his family, fishing, the outdoors, educating, understanding, reading and was an active volunteer at his local VFW.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Elaine Johnson; brother Bill (Diane) Kirkwood; daughter, Chace Roberts (Justin); sons Dieter (Susie) and Colin Kirkwood; grandchildren, Klaus Kirkwood, Remy, Reese and Ryder Roberts; former wife and continued friend, Susan Kirkwood; as well as many friends.

A celebration of life services will be held on Monday, February 11, 2019, at Newcomer 335 East State Rd. 434, Longwood FL at 11:00 AM. Military service will follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery 5525 US Hwy 1, Mims, FL.