Kirk Aanes was an American screenwriter who had a successful career in television and theater. He wrote for shows like The City, Love Thy Neighbor, and Loving. He also won the Eugene O’Neill Award for one of his short plays. However, his life took a tragic turn in 1996 when he was involved in a car accident that left him with brain damage and disability. He died in 2014 at the age of 49 from atherosclerotic heart disease. This article will explore the life and death of Kirk Aanes, and how he left a mark on the entertainment industry.
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Early Life and Education
Kirk Aanes was born on August 5, 1964, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was the son of Marcus and Valerie Aanes. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1982, and then attended St. Cloud State University, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in theater and creative writing. He graduated summa cum laude from the university, showing his talent and passion for writing.
Career and Achievements
After graduation, Kirk moved to New York City to pursue his dream of writing and theater. He started working as a screenwriter for various television dramas, such as The City, Love Thy Neighbor, and Loving. He also wrote and produced several plays, including one that won him the prestigious Eugene O’Neill Award. He was known for his witty and engaging style of writing, and his ability to create compelling characters and stories.
Personal Life and Marriage
Kirk Aanes married Ming-Na Wen, an American actress and model, in 1990. They met at a theater workshop and fell in love. Ming-Na Wen is best known for her roles in Mulan, ER, and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. They had a lavish wedding at Lamb’s Theaters in New York City, and lived in Manhattan. However, their marriage did not last long, and they divorced in 1993.
Car Accident and Disability
In March of 1996, Kirk Aanes was driving home from a theater rehearsal in the Pocono Mountains, when he had a horrific car accident. He was in a coma for five weeks, and suffered multiple broken bones and brain damage. He survived the accident, but his life was never the same. He had short-term memory loss and disability, and had to rely on his family and friends for support. He moved to Fort Myers, Florida, where his mother lived, and spent his days in a nursing home.
Death and Legacy
Kirk Aanes died on January 11, 2014, at his home in Fort Myers. He was found dead by his mother, who had gone to check on him. The cause of his death was atherosclerotic heart disease, a condition that affects the arteries and the heart. He was 49 years old. He was cremated and his ashes were scattered in the ocean.
Kirk Aanes left behind a legacy of his work as a screenwriter and a playwright. He also left behind his family and friends, who loved him and remembered him for his personality and his talent. He was a promising and talented writer, who had a bright future ahead of him, but his life was cut short by a tragic accident. He will be missed by many.
