James Russell Kirkpatrick

1895 - 1974

James Kirkpatrick was born in Middleville, Michigan, April 29, 1895. He entered the Art Institute of Chicago, graduating in 1918. After WWI he continued his studies at the Grand Rapids School of Designing, then served as staff designer for Tomlinson of High Point. He joined his uncle, Arthur Kirkpatrick to form the studio of Kirkpatrick & Kirkpatrick until 1941 when the senior partner died. He and his wife, Marie A. Kirkpatrick, daughter of Arthur, continued in partnership until Russell’s death in 1974. He was a life member of the Grand Rapids Designers’ Association and served as its president in 1958.