William Anthony Kirby Jr

ELKHORN — William Anthony “Bill” Kirby Jr. died peacefully in Clearwater, Fla., July 22, 2021, at the age of 72.

Bill was born Oct. 30, 1948, in Osmond, to William and Evalyn (Tuma) Kirby. He was the third of nine siblings. Bill attended Wausa Public Schools, and graduated in 1966. He attended UNL after graduation. Bill went on to start and operate several businesses and moved to Clearwater, Fla., in 1987 to start Kirby Grinding Services. He operated the business up until his death.

Bill was a great brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and a loyal friend to many. Many remember him as “The Duke.” He was a charter member of Phi Zappa Krappa. He loved sports with his teams being the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Bucs, the Rays, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

He was a gentleman and very generous to all. He led a good life, and will be missed by all that met him.

Bill is survived by his brothers Neil Kirby (Terri), Elkhorn, NE, Greg Kirby (Mary), Omaha; and Mark Kirby, Crofton, NE; his sisters Kathy O’Brien (Dave), Yankton, S.D.; and Sandy White, Council Bluffs, IA, and in-laws Dan Barnett, Hot Springs, AR; Dan Wetherell, St. Peter’s, MO; and Lou Van Dyke, Omaha.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents William and Evalyn Kirby, brother Kevin Kirby, and sisters Sheila Barnett and Nancy Wetherell.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., at St Patrick’s Cemetery Aug. 14, followed by a luncheon at St Patrick’s Church.

Memorials will be directed by the family.