Elmer S. Kirby

July 19, 1952 - February 14, 2021

Elmer Kirby, 68, of Oskaloosa died Sunday, February 14, 2021, at the Oskaloosa Care Center in Oskaloosa. He was born July 19, 1952, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of Elmer C. and Georgia K. Bloomfield Kirby. He graduated from the School of the Deaf in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Following school, he returned to Oskaloosa. Elmer worked various part-time jobs around Oskaloosa including McDonalds and the Oskaloosa Herald. He especially enjoyed visiting with the guys at Fred’s Muffler Shop and Mitrisin Motors. He always enjoyed helping Fred and later Tim around the muffler shop. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa. Elmer enjoyed watching races, he rarely missed a Wednesday night at the Southern Iowa Speedway, Saturday at the Eddyville Drag Strip and on Sundays he was glued to the television cheering for his favorite NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon. He also enjoyed rooting for the Iowa Hawkeyes and the San Francisco 49ers. Elmer always had time to check out a classic car or watch trains. He would spend hours at the mall watching the model trains. Even though he was able to drive a car, his preferred method of transportation was his bicycle. For many years he rode his bike everywhere, including trips to Fairfield and Eddyville. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends, he especially looked forward to the Kirby Reunion every year. He will be remembered for his kind heart and strong will. He is survived by two half-brothers, Jerry Lytle and Mike Johnson: many cousins, and his close friend Tim DeJong and his family. Elmer was preceded in death by his parents; two half-brothers, Bob Lytle, Gary Lytle. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 from 5-7 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa. Following visitation, per Elmer’s wishes his body will be cremated. A graveside memorial service will be held at a later date in the Beacon Cemetery. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Southern Iowa Speedway.