Search for camper ends

Kirk, an experienced outdoorsman who often took solo trips in the woods, was reported missing Dec. 8.

Williams said scores of volunteers searched the area around Frog and Twin lakes in the Mount Hood National Forest.

“It’s a huge traffic area and we found a lot of little things, like a tent pole, but there was no way to tie them to Mr. Kirk,” said Williams.

“We found absolutely no evidence that we can contribute to him.”

He said Kirk is believed to have arrived at the Frog Lake snopark between noon and 1 p.m. on Dec. 3.

“We have no known direction of travel from this parking lot,” said Williams. “It is unknown what his intentions were or what gear he had with him.”

Family and friends have not heard from Kirk in the days since he headed out for the mountain. He had stated plans to return Dec. 6.

An Oregonian report Dec. 15 said family members have resigned themselves to the likelihood that Kirk may never be found.

Williams said not only were ground crews and dogs searching on the ground, but surveillance aircraft with infrared cameras tried to pick up body heat — all to no avail.

Searchers and support units came from around the region and the Oregon Army National Guard provided a helicopter to aid in the effort. The Airforce 304th Rescue Squadron Pararescuemen also provided assistance.

Kirk grew up in Milwaukie and graduated from Portland Public Schools’ Vocational Village High School.

He lived for a number of years in Arizona before returning to his hometown, where he began studying for a bachelor’s degree in business.

Williams asks that anyone who might have seen Kirk on or around Dec. 3 call 541-296-5454.