William "Bill" Kirby

Bill Kirby, 58, finished his race on Earth and began his eternal life in heaven on Oct. 3, 2008 after a sudden heart attack. Bill was born in Marion, Ohio on Nov. 25, 1949, to William Richard Kirby and Ruth Marlene Messenger. He graduated from Marion Catholic High School in 1968 and from San Diego State University in 1973. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He married the woman of his dreams, Donna Kay McCrary, on July 25, 1970 in San Diego, Calif. They spent 38 wonderful years together, traveling the United States and parts of Europe. Together they raised three beautiful children. He cherished and spent countless hours playing, fishing, traveling, and making memories with his children and grandchildren. Bill was a friend to many and enemy to none. He was a faithful servant of the Lord. He was a member of Timberline Church where he served as an usher. Bill's quick wit, sarcasm, and practical jokes were hallmarks of his days. All who knew him admired his integrity and character. He became a passionate runner in his mid 40s, completing numerous races, and was enthusiastic about finishing two full marathons in his 50s. He inspired many and took great pleasure in racing with his family. Bill was an avid hiker, scaling several l4ers and never passed up an opportunity to explore the world around him. He captured thousands of photographs of his adventures and time with family. He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Kirby of Windsor; brother, Steve Kirby of Portland, Maine; sisters, Kathy Warren and Karen Schendel of San Diego, Calif., and Tina Johnson of Port Orchard, Wash.; his children, Jennifer Richard Schelir of Fort Collins, Shannon Todd Neel of Lakewood, and Brandon Kirby of Salt Lake City, Utah; his grandchildren, Keaton, Jadyn, and Ryland Schelir & Caleb, Kimmy, and James Neel. He was reunited in heaven with his parents Dick and Ruth and numerous aunts and uncles. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9th at Bohlender Funeral Chapel. A celebration of Bill's life will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10th at Timberline Church, 2908 S. Timberline Rd. with a reception to follow. Bill will be cremated per his wishes. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Bill's memory with a donation to Kimmyshouse.com an orphanage for special needs children in Hyderabad, India established in honor of his granddaughter. Friends may send condolences to the family at bohlenderfuneralchapel.com.

Tributes

William "Bill" Kirby

October 3, 2008