Michael J. Kirby

Michael Jon Kirby, 77, went to his Heavenly home on August 10, 2023.

Born in Oakland, California on June 22, 1946, then adopted by Melvin & Emily (nee Candlish) Kirby and was their only child. Serving first as an Air Force Vietnam Veteran, he then completed his Bachelor’s degree at University of Nevada Las Vegas. At his UNLV graduation party on May 19, 1974, he met his future bride, Glenda L. Chase. Married later that summer, they celebrated over 49 years together.

He began his career, working as a Title Manager in the Bay Area for Safeco for 10 years. He then worked as a Right of Way Agent for 17 years at Sacramento Municipal Utility District – SMUD. After SMUD, he spent an additional 5 years helping to build out the infrastructure for the city of Brentwood, California, growing the city from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of residents.

He was an unwavering Christian and a Mighty Man of Faith who enjoyed his multiple church families across the states he resided. As a committed foodie and gym rat he could be found at the YMCA doing one of his notorious workouts or having a bite to eat at any number of his favorite places: Bradshaws, Culvers, In-N-Out, Howard’s Donuts, Round Table Pizza, Long Horn’s or Cracker Barrel, to name a few. Known affectionately as Coach Kirby or “Big” Papa, you could find him coaching softball, AWANA, swimming, gymnastics or, most importantly, life. He was a friend to all animals, from his pets at home to the wildlife that ate from the palms of his hand on our annual camping trips to Donner Lake.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife; daughters, Farrah Kirby, Andrea Pinner and Michaella Kirby; son-in-law, Claude Pinner; grandchildren, Aryanna Chacon, Nathan LaTulip, Carlo Chacon, Julian Chacon, Dakota Chacon, Gianna Chacon, Annaleigh Pinner, Charlotte Pinner and Emmalynn Pinner and half-sister Patricia Kirby. He is predeceased by his parents.

Memorials in his honor may be made to Lukhanyiso Safe House, a program supported through the Khayamandi Foundation; a place that was close to Michael’s heart. (https://khayamandi.com)

To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.plattsfuneralhome.com