UMATILLA – Kenneth K. Kirby Sr., 82, of Umatilla died Sunday, Aug. 16, 2009, at his home. A private family gathering will be held, with burial to follow in the Enterprise Cemetery.

Mr. Kirby was born Sept. 13, 1926, in Oakland, Calif., to Arthur and Bessie Jacobs Kirby. He was raised and attended schools in Oakdale, Calif. After graduating high school he enlisted in the Navy, serving during WWII. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to California. He worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Sacramento Highway Department until retiring in 1991.

He was married to Suzanne “Suzie” Folsom in 1978 in Reno, Nev. They retired to Oregon, living in Union from 2006-2008 and then moving to Umatilla, where they have lived since.

Survivors include his wife, Suzie Kirby of Umatilla; daughter Priscilla Ann O’Malley of Enterprise; son Ken Kirby Jr. of Perrydale; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Linna Meyer; and brother Donald Kirby.

Memorial contributions may be made to the local VFW Post.

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in charge of arrangements.