Clarence Leroy "Lee" Kirkman Jr.

Clarence Kirkman ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Lauck & Veldhof Funeral and Cremation Services on Mar. 17, 2026.Obituary for Clarence Leroy "Lee" Kirkman Jr.Clarence Leroy "Lee" Kirkman Jr., age 80, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026, after a long battle with dementia and Alzheimer's. He was born on February 15, 1946, in Marion County, Indiana, to the late Clarence Leroy Kirkman and Flora Jane (Clidienst) Williams.Lee grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1964. Shortly after, he proudly joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Vietnam War. He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart medal, a testament to his courage and sacrifice. Those who knew him best affectionately called him "Ducky" or "Lee."After returning home, Lee became a barber and went on to own and operate Lee's Barber Shop on the northeast side of Indianapolis for more than 44 years. His shop became a neighborhood fixture, its walls covered in clocks from his ever-growing collection and marked by his signature motto: "Where it's Always Time for a Haircut." Lee formed countless friendships in that chair, offering not just haircuts but conversation, humor, and genuine connection.Lee was a member of V.F.W. Post 2999 and the American Legion. He enjoyed fishing at his lake property in Clay City, watching birds, hunting for bargains at flea markets and garage sales, and dancing, something he was especially known for in his younger years. His striking blue eyes, playful spirit, and sarcastic wit made him unforgettable. He had a remarkable way with children and cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.He is survived by his children, Kelly Frakes (Darryl), Jim Kirkman (Patty), and Eric Kirkman (Brandy); his sister, Judi Bautista (Gil); brothers, Frank Kirkman (Theresa) and Morris Ridenour (Becky); sister-in-law, Rita Kirkman; grandchildren, Dallas Hamm (Rich), Danyel Mayerson (Adam), Drew Frakes, Doug, Greg, and Ben Kirkman, Emma and Kiel Kirkman; great-grandchildren, Blake, Colton, and Ashton Hamm, Henry Frakes, and Rhoman Mayerson; as well as many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry Kirkman; his wife, Rosetta Kirkman; and his former wife, Linda Kirkman, the mother of his children.Family and friends will gather on Sunday, March 22, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services, 1458 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 23, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Loral Tansy officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Greenwood, where Lee will be laid to rest with full military honors.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.To share a favorite memory, sign the guest book, or order flowers, please visit www.LauckFuneralhome.comTo send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clarence "Lee" Leroy Kirkman, Jr., please visit our floral store.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.