Fred Gerald Kirby, age 82, lifelong resident of Goodland passed away Sunday, February 25, 2024 at his home. Fred was born March 24, 1941 to Leonard Ray and Mattie B. (Tatham) Kirby in Goodland.
Fred grew up and went to school in Goodland, graduating from Goodland High School with the class of 1960. On April 29, 1961 he married Patty Colby, to this union Pam was born. In 1968 Fred enlisted in the United States Army and served until 1971. He returned to Goodland attended and graduated from the Northwest Kansas Technical College Carpentry Program. Fred worked many jobs over the years, Harvey Larm Trash Service, Hardman Lumber, drove a dump truck for Dick Stegman and Jack Armstrong, delivered the Rocky Mountain News, jailer for the Sherman County Sheriff Department, maintenance man for Golden West Skills Center and Goodland Regional Medical Center, small engine repair at Alex’s Radiator & Repair, and always helping out anyone that needed it. Fred was a lifetime member of Goodland VFW Post 1133. Fred served as a VFW Color Guard member and Commander. Fred also served as a board member for the Sherman County Speedway in previous years. He enjoyed leather work, playing cards, hanging out at Alex’s shop, going on road trips (adventures) with family, supporting, and cheering on his grandchildren, watching races and demolition derbys, spending time at the VFW, drinking coffee, and most of all spending time with his family and friends.
Preceding him in death are his parents, grandparents, wife Patty and brother Leonard Kirby. Fred is survived by his daughter Pam (Casey) Morrell of Goodland, KS; Alex West of Goodland, Kansas, his 3 grandchildren Adrienne (Chris) Springer of Goodland, KS, Tamara West (Caleb) of Keiser, OR and Ray West (Kristina) of Goodland, KS; brothers Sam Kirby of Loveland, CO and Dale Kirby of San Antonio, TX; sister Betty Erwin of Phoenix, AZ; and 5 greatgrandchildren. Fred also leaves behind his dear friend, George Morrell of Goodland, KS.
Memorial service will be Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. MT at First Baptist Church, 1121 Main, Goodland. Memorials may be designated to Fred Kirby Memorial Fund and may be left at the service or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home. P.O. Box 278, Goodland, Kansas 67735. Information and condolences www.batemanfuneral.com