Wayne was born to Walter and Marie Kirby on September 27, 1938 in Tremonton, Utah. He passed away November 10, 2019 at Astria Regional in Yakima, Washington. The family moved to Yakima when Wayne was a child, and later he attended Yakima High School.
In October 1955, at the age of 17, Wayne enlisted in the United States Navy, transferring to the U.S.S. Bremerton in July of 1956 to be stationed with his brother, Newell “Rocky.” There are many stories of their sailing to Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and off the coast of Viet Nam, playing guitar and singing to the sailors on board. He received the Good Conduct Medal, and was discharged as Ship Electrician, rank of E-5 (Petty Officer Second Class) in 1959. During this time, he married his first wife, Eloise Klouse, and had four children.
Wayne was a gifted entertainer; playing guitar and singing blues, jazz and rock. He admired Elvis and could play and sing almost every song that Elvis recorded. Wayne told many stories of touring and playing music for Cheryl Ladd. He played in many local bands and musical performances, meeting the “love of his life,” and second wife, Virginia “Ginny” Rogers.
In addition to his music, he owned and operated Kirby Painting and Drywall since the early 70’s and taught both his sons the business. He was an avid fisherman, enjoying many weekends boating on the lakes with family and friends. He also enjoyed watching the Seattle Seahawks and the Mariners. Wayne was also a member of the American Legion and V.F.W.
He is preceded in death by his daughters Kristie and Elizabeth, wife Ginny; parents Marie and Walter, brothers Newell “Rocky” and Gary, and sister Donna.
He is survived by his children Lois, David (Sandi and daughter Nicole), and Karen from his first marriage. His son Kevin (Jeanie and son Phillip and wife Eliza), grandchildren, Jared and Derek Kirby; sisters-in-law Betty, Debby and Esther Rogers, Beth (Gil) Miller, and numerous nieces and nephews; special family members Debbie Splawn and Carla Journagan; also, longtime friends Steven Trujillo and Jon Durand.
Visitation will be held at Keith and Keith Funeral Home on Thursday November 21, 2019 from 4:00 -8:00 p.m. Graveside Service will be held at Terrace Heights Memorial Park, Friday November 22, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. A Memorial Remembrance will be held at Rainier Memorial Center Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 1:00 p.m.
