Irvin "Mac" McDowell Kircher

Irvin “Mac” McDowell Kircher, 77, a dedicated firefighter of Jeffersonville, Indiana, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on November 12, 2023, at 10:52 am.

Mac, as he was known to all, was born in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Miriam McDowell Kircher and Irvin Leo Kircher.

Mac attended Holy Trinity, was a Boy Scout, and loved animals and nature. He graduated from Trinity High School in 1964, where he played intramurals and soccer, loved to work on cars, and preferred Biology and Logic classes. Mac attended Bellarmine University, worked as a caddy, cut grass, and worked as a stock boy at Winn Dixie, where he met his wife of 56 years, Diana. Together they had two daughters, Melanie and Heather.

Mac joined the United States Army in 1967, where he was a decorated Rifle Marksman. He continued his service in the Army National Guard for another eight years.

Mac was a founding member of Jeff-Clark Preservation. He helped restore historic homes in downtown Jeffersonville to their previous glory. There was not a home project he could not tackle.

Mac’s greatest passion was being a professional firefighter to the community of Jeffersonville. He dedicated 40 years of his life to his career with a deep sense of duty. He faced the inherent dangers of the profession, responding to emergencies with skill and determination. He was a beacon of hope in the time of crisis, providing reassurance and comfort to those in distress. His colleagues remember him as a reliable and steadfast leader who always went above the call of duty. In the face of adversity, he remained calm and focused, showcasing heroism. He left behind a legacy of selflessness, bravery and unwavering commitment to the community of Jeffersonville.

During his distinguished career, Mac worked his way up the ranks to Deputy Chief and retired as Battalion Chief. In a quest to better his knowledge in his firefighter profession, he garnered additional certifications in areas such as Hazardous Materials, Swift Water Rescue, Fire Arson Investigation, and Confined Space Rescue. He was also a Training Officer and a member of the Local 558.

Mac is survived by his wife, the former Diana Hendren, his daughters, Melanie Yates (Doug) and Heather Wathen (Scott), four grandchildren; Lauren Shelby (Michael), Ben Yates, Hayden Wathen and Greer Wathen; two great-grandchildren, Michael and Nathan Shelby; a sister, Sharle Chiles, a brother, Rob Kircher (Terri) and a host of loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

A visitation will be held at Scott Funeral Home, 2515 Veterans Parkway, Jeffersonville, on Thursday, November 16, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 315 E. Chestnut Street, Jeffersonville, on Friday, November 17, at 11:00 am, with burial at Cave Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and in honor of Mac’s love of animals, the family asks for donations to Second Chances Wildlife, Southern Indiana Animal Rescue, Raptor Rehabilitation of Louisville, or Jeffersonville Animal Shelter.