The Rose Bowl Garden
In Loving Memory of John William Kirton, Sr.
Son. Veteran. Builder. Father. Brother.
U.S. Air Force SSgt, Korean War
Laid to Rest: December 2005
Salt Lake City Cemetery
He was a man of quiet strength and steady hands—
A Son who honored his Mother with a garden of roses.
A Veteran who served his country with courage.
A Father who passed on grit and grace.
But also—a great Brother,
One who stood strong for those he loved,
Who never let the youngest feel left behind,
Who built not just gardens, but trust, laughter, and shelter.
That love lives on in his baby Sister,
Great Aunt Peggy,
Who now watches over this sacred place with her children and theirs—
Tending not only roses, but the legacy he Back-built.
This Rose Bowl is not merely soil and bloom.
It is the heartbeat of a family.
It is the echo of a Brother’s kindness.
It is Kirton roots—deep, loyal, and true.