Kirby James Herr

September 21, 1965 - December 21, 2012

Kirby showed us all how to live life abundantly, and his presence will be forever missed. This joyful, fun-loving, clever, hilarious, generous, athletic, and well-travelled man made all of our lives richer. From his activity-filled childhood in SK to memorable home parties in High River, from golf courses to the family cabin at Greig Lake, he left an indelible mark. Kirby was a husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend extraordinaire. Left to remember him with greatest love are his wife and true love, Laurel; his parents, Jim and Helen Herr; his sisters Heather Rutz (Rob), Shelley Leedahl (Greg), Crystal Herrod (Warren), and brother Ron Meetoos (Elisabeth). He was a favourite among nephews and nieces Logan, Taylor (Megan), Landis (Amanda), Tanner, Jacquelyn (Damen), Brandon (Heidi), Jenna, Kyara, Eli, Xander and Abi; and great nephews and nieces Leah, Ashlynn, Reid, Annika and Nash. Laurel’s parents, Bill and Karen Cecil; sister Val (Derek); and brother Chris (Amy) cherish his memory. Kirby’s brother-in-law, Troy Leedahl; sister-in-law, Susanna Meetoos; aunt Doreen Friesen (Irvin) and Laurel’s extended family will also miss this unforgettable man. Kirby was blessed with a gift for friendship and he treasured each friend dearly. He was born in Kyle, SK and spent much of his childhood in Meadow Lake. He studied at the U of S and lived in England before settling in High River in 1989 and pursuing successful careers in sales – first auto, then real estate. After Kirby’s Dec. 2005 diagnosis of cancer (from asbestos exposure in childhood), a team of surgeons, physicians, and nurses helped extend his time years beyond expectation, but his primary caregiver has always been Laurel, his “Lolly”. Kirby accepted his diagnosis from the outset with dignity and courage. He recently comforted his father with: “It’s okay, Dad. I’ve had a good run.” Deepest thanks to Dr. Ashref Jeeva for care and compassion over the last 7 years; the High River Emergency Dept. for excellent care; Dr. Walley Temple and Dr. Don Morris at Tom Baker Cancer Centre for the special attention; Dr. Ron Spice and the Rural Palliative Team for the prompt response and guidance; Sandy Hall for compassion during Kirby’s last 4 days; and Craig Snodgrass (Lyle Reeves Funerals) for the personal service. Donations to the Rural Palliative Team (Calgary Zone) or the High River Hospital Foundation are welcomed. Kirby will be happy to connect with Marvin Gaye, grandparents, and Gunner the dog. We love you Kirby. Cheers. A Celebration of Kirby’s Life was held at the Highwood Memorial Centre, 128 - 5 Avenue W, High River, AB, Saturday, Dec. 29th at 2:00 P.M. To send condolences and view Kirby’s Tribute Page please visit www.lylereeves.com . Caring for the family is Lyle Reeves Funerals of High River (Craig Snodgrass) 403.652.4242.