Following graduation from Kent State University Karen began her first career as a special education teacher in Warren, Ohio and then as a second grade teacher in Olmsted Falls. After taking time off to raise her two children, Elisa and Brian, she became a licensed Realtor and soon became a top producer earning many loyal customers and countless awards over a thirty-three year career. Her national honors include the “Leading Professional in North America” and the “National Top Five Percent” award. Karen is currently a member of the Wasilko Team at Howard Hanna.
After graduating from Kenyon College, John worked as a mathematics teacher in Cleveland Public Schools. In 1970 he joined The Astrup Company which was founded in 1876 by his great-grandfather, William J.O. Astrup, a Danish immigrant and a sailmaker by trade. Over the next 131 years the company evolved into a manufacturer of awning, tent and marine hardware and an international distributor of outdoor recreational and technical fabrics. In 1974 John earned an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. He served for 24 years as President & C.E.O. of The Astrup Company.
Karen and John have been blessed with opportunities to contribute time and talent to organizations such as the Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland, the West Side Ecumenical Ministry, Seeds of Literacy, Scranton Elementary School, Providence House, Children’s Services Inc. (now Applewood Centers), Lakewood Hospital, The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller and, of course, the Christ Child Society of Cleveland where Karen currently serves as the Events Chairman on the Board of Directors.
Through the John H. & Karen B. Kirk Foundation, John and Karen have been able to provide financial support to organizations such as the Rocky River Education Foundation, The Centers for Families and Children, Recovery Resources, Blessing House, the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and the Christ Child Society. They have also, for many years, supported the Amor Para Compartir Orphanage in Cuernavaca, Mexico and recently, through Operacion Rescate, paid for the construction of a home for a family of five in El Salvador. The house is named for Karen’s mother, Marie Belcastro.
Karen and John are long time members of St. Christopher Parish in Rocky River where Karen sings in the choir.
Karen and John have been married for 52 years and have 5 grandchildren (Sophie, Claire, Angelina, Julia and Daniel) the sunshine of their lives.
