It is with much sadness that we share the obituary of Dr. David Kirkpatrick, a recently retired and long-time faculty member of the Department of Animal Science at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

His accomplishments to the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture included his help in developing the UT Bull Test Program, the Beef Genetic Qualification program for the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, and his contributions to the UT Master Beef Producer Program. Dr. Kirkpatrick was one of the most well-known beef experts in Tennessee and beyond. Soon after retirement in 2020, he received the Continuing Service Award from the Beef Improvement Federation. This award is given to members of the beef industry who have made major contributions to the field and to the Beef Improvement Federation organization. You would also find him as a big supporter and volunteer at the Youth Livestock Shows.

We will miss Dr. Kirkpatrick’s smile and enthusiasm which he brought to work and to everyone he knew.

More information about his career and lifetime of achievements can be found in his obituary: