Richard David Kirby Jr

Richard David Kirby Jr., age 63, passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2017 at Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland after a courageous battle with lymphoma. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and a dear friend to many. Filled with a genuinely kind spirit, Rick was a warm and welcoming man who made people feel happy to be around him. He loved his family, friends, and life on Lake Erie. He was a dedicated professional and worked with great integrity all of his life. Rick found the love of his life, Melissa, at Bowling Green State University and they were married for 38 years. Rick and Melissa built a beautiful life together by creating a loving family with daughter Kristen and son Dustin. He was so proud when his family expanded to include his son-in-law Douglas and daughter-in-law Megan. And just one year ago, pure joy entered his life when he became a grandfather to twins Emily and Evan. Rick’s favorite moments were the ones spent with his family. You could often find Rick boating or playing a round of golf, or two or three, anytime and anywhere. Relationships were important to him and he truly enjoyed weekly outings with his best friends. As a professional, Rick worked as a purchasing manager for 40 years, the last 28 as Vice President of Purchasing for Universal Metal Products. To pay his way through college, Rick worked as a deckhand on the Sylvania, a lake freighter on Lake Erie - which, as a bonus, made for some great stories. Rick was born to Isabelle Anita and Richard David Kirby on June 1, 1954. His father died young, but Rick always had a special relationship with his mother. He loved to take her to Indians baseball games and spend time with her. Survivors include Richard’s wife of 38 years: Melissa Dee Kirby, children: Kristen Elizabeth (Douglas A.) Estes, Richard Dustin (Megan M.) Kirby, Twin-grandchildren: Emily and Evan Estes, mother: Isabelle Kirby and sister: Beverly Carroll. Preceding Richard in death is his father: Richard David Kirby. A Memorial service will be 6 p.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2017, at Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave. Mentor, OH, 44060. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. The family would be honored to have donations made to cancer research through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or American Cancer Society in Rick’s name. Please send flowers or offer condolences at www.brunners.com