Founder of Kirlin's stores dies

Dale T. Kirlin Sr., founder of the Kirlin’s Hallmark store chain, died Tuesday at age 93 in Quincy, Ill.
Kirlin opened his first candy store on March 13, 1948 in downtown Quincy, and soon adding greeting cards to the store’s merchandise.
Today, the company has more than 100 stores in 10 Midwest states, including two in Quincy and one in Hannibal. It is Hallmark’s largest independent distributor in the nation.
Kirlin retired in 1981, but stayed active in community affairs. His son, Dale Jr., is chairman of the company and other family members are involved.
Hansen-Spear Funeral Home in Quincy is in charge of arrangements.