…was established by the Kirkland Heritage Society for the purpose of awarding an annual scholarship to one or more college bound seniors and to foster an interest in the local history of Kirkland.
Past Winners
Essay topic for 2023: "Who in your personal life has influenced you, and why?”
About Christine J. Neir
Christine was born October 18, 1929, in Inkster, Michigan. She attended the University of Michigan, graduating in 1951 with a degree in Education. She married her college sweetheart Robert Neir in August 1951, and they found themselves drawn to the charms of Kirkland, a peaceful little town on the shores of Lake Washington, where in 1955 they built their first home on Rose Hill.
Later they moved to a new home in the Houghton area, where Christine raised her four boys, whom all graduated from Lake Washington High School.
Christine was very involved with her community. She was a reporter for the local Kirkland newspaper, employed with Washington Federal Savings & Loans in the Kirkland branch for 19 years.
To recognize and honor Christine’s life, her warm heart, unwavering love, and generous spirit, her family, friends and the Kirkland Heritage Society have sponsored this annual scholarship.
About Robert L. Neir
Bob was born on October 17, 1929, in Astoria, New York. Bob attended the University of Michigan, graduating in 1951 and was the first in his family to graduate from college.
Bob entered the U.S. Army in September 1951, received a Commission in Ordnance and attended Officer Candidate School. With the end of the Korean War in 1953 and two years of service, Bob had achieved a rank of second lieutenant.
Ready for a new adventure, the Bob and Chris moved west to the Seattle area in 1953 and found themselves drawn to the charms of Kirkland where they built their first home on Rose Hill.
Bob was elected to the Kirkland City Council in 1969. He was instrumental in shaping Kirkland into the park-centric city it is today. In 1973 he was asked to serve as Chairman of Metro Transit, staying long enough to oversee construction of the Downtown Metro Transit tunnel. Bob retired from Metro in 1990, after 17 years, followed by retiring from Kirkland City government in 1991, after 22 years which included a stint as mayor from 1974-80. Bob then retired from Boeing in 1992 after 38 years.
His family and friends, touched by his ready laugh and sharp wit, dearly miss him. Bob was a kind man and committed to his family, friends and community. A devoted husband, wonderful father, and supportive grandfather, brother and uncle. A good friend and wise mentor to many people. The many wonderful memories he has given us, ensures he will always be a presence in our lives.
