Auburn community gathers to remember former Mayor Kirby

Despite the soaring temperature Saturday, community members showed up to remember the life of former Mayor Bill Kirby at Recreation Park. Kirby passed away in an airplane accident April 18, 2020, amid the pandemic and its gathering restrictions. "We knew a celebration of life in July would be hot and there would be many dear friends out of the state and country, but it was important to our family's healing that we celebrate as soon as we could safely gather," said Sarah Kirby-Gonzalez, Kirby's daughter, in an email to the Auburn Journal. "The day did not disappoint." Kirby-Gonzalez said the day was beautiful and there was a perfect breeze under the tree canopy. She thanked everyone who joined the celebration "at the park and in spirit." "We heard more stories of Dad's generosity, lives he saved and people he stood up for," she said. "While we all would have liked more years with him, there is no denying that his life was full and well-lived." Kirby-Gonzalez wanted to give a special thanks to the Rotary Club of Auburn, which served the barbecue, Auburn artist Nancy Hakala, who designed a map of Kirby's favorite local spots, the band Brotherly Mud, which performed, and the Auburn Parks and Recreation District, which helped host. "It was a great day with every detail planned specially to honor Dad," Kirby-Gonzalez said. "From the location to the Rotary BBQ to the popcorn machine to his books on the table for guests to take to the map Nancy Hakala created and more." Kirby-Gonzalez said if anyone in the community has a story to share about her dad, written or over video, she'd love to include it in a collection for his granddaughters. Email Kirby-Gonzalez at sarahkirbygonzalez@gmail.com.