Noel Ernest Kirby Jr.

Noel Ernest "Ernie" Kirby Jr. was born on July 7, 1943, in Topeka, Kansas, and grew up in El Centro, California, as the oldest of seven children. Ernie Kirby passed away on February 10, 2025, in Lone Tree, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his brothers Keith and David and is survived by his brothers Ron and Lowell, and his sisters Janet and Karen. 

After graduating from Central Union High School in 1961, Ernie worked for the Imperial Irrigation District before starting his more than 33-year career with Texaco. 

Ernie married the love of his life, Vickie, in 1963, and they spent 61 wonderful years together. Throughout his life, Ernie was a faithful and humble Christian. He served as an elder at both the Simi Valley Church of Christ and the Littleton Church of Christ. He was known by many as the unofficial greeter at the churches he attended, always offering the warmest hugs to everyone he met. 

Ernie was a devoted father to his three children—Glenn, Kenny, and Krissy—Ernie was equally dedicated to his children's spouses, Mark and Deanne. He and Vickie were blessed with seven grandchildren: Tori (husband Jeff), Kati, Stevi, Elizabeth, Cody (wife Kaitlyn), Ty, and Zach as well as two great-grandchildren, Bruce and Sawyer. 

In retirement, Ernie found a second calling in helping those in need. He worked tirelessly with the Littleton Church of Christ Foodbank, the University Church of Christ Food Pantry, the Elizabeth Foodbank, and many other organizations, dedicating countless hours to feeding the hungry. 

Ernie was also an avid hunter and cherished the time spent with his sons, grandsons, and close friends in the great outdoors. 

Living by the motto "Love God, Love People," Ernie never met a stranger and touched the lives of everyone he encountered. 

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Ernie are invited to gather at the University Church of Christ, 2000 South Milwaukee Street, from 10:00 AM to noon on Saturday, February 22, 2025, to share memories, grieve, and support each other. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Ernie Kirby to the University Church of Christ Food Pantry. Checks can be made out to the University Church of Christ (please include “Food Pantry” or “In Memory of Ernie Kirby” in the memo) 2000 South Milwaukee Street, Denver, CO 80210.

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