In loving memory of Derek 'Del' Kirby who sadly passed away on 3rd April 2023.
Del was loved by all his family and friends - he always brought a smile to our faces and lit up the room with his energy and jokes. He would always make time for you.
Del was born in Hornchurch in 1935, one of 8 brothers and sisters. He met his beloved wife Jean in 1954 and was the father to his daughters Karen, Julie and Paula who he adored, along with his 7 Grandchildren. Del moved to Michigan to continue his career in the automotive industry where he made many great friends, often frequenting the Hamlin and singing and dancing in his friends band. Del loved West Ham and F1 racing and enjoyed playing golf. In 2005, Del returned home to England after retiring to be with his family. He will be missed by all.
The family have requested any donations to be made to Prostate Cancer in lieu of flowers at the funeral. We really appreciate any messages and memories you have of Del below.
I absolutely loved this man. He made me laugh so much at work. Best of all we were friends out of work too. He stayed in touch even after he went home to the UK . So glad I got to see him on his last visit to the states. I will never forget him and all the funny stories. Rest in Peace Derek.
Just like his other friends have said on this page, it is hard for me to put into words just how special a person Derek was. My daughters God Father, my Golf Partner and my Best Friend who was always there for me. He’s missed but will always be with us….. Alan & Sophie xxx
Moore, Peters, Kirby
Ryder Cup Lads
Cherished memories Dad will be with us forever. Rest in Peace
Boleyn Ground (Upton Park)
Going to miss my mate, the times we had at Football and Golf will never be forgotten, especially the trip to Medinah for the ryder cup, the trips to watch West Brom try to play football, and the trips to your beloved Hammers grounds old and new. The laughs we had at the family gatherings will be with us for ever. Rest easy mate. God Bless
Rest in peace uncle Derek. Love from Lynn xx
In my heart forever xxx
Rest in peace dad. Love you always
RIP Grandpa x x
setting the dance floor ablaze
Grandpa there’s not enough words that can describe the happiness you brought to us and love you showed us. You put a beaming smile on everyone’s faces, always put others before yourself and made life fun - you were an absolute pleasure to be around. You showed us there can be a perfect blend of hard work and not taking life too seriously. A truly amazing human being that we will continue to look up to. We’re going to miss your silly jokes and everything about you. You were not only an amazing Grandpa, you were an amazing Friend. We’ve lost an Angel and Heaven has gained one. RIP mate x x x
I have nothing but fond memories of “uncle Derek”, my god father. That seems to be the case with everyone. He is very loved. I am sad to hear he passed.
In memory of my wonderful husband
Where do we even begin - such great memories of a very kind and funny man! We will miss our dear friend, may he RIP.
May, 2015....Del’s last visit to Michigan. ❤️ The boys are back!! 🎶
Chelsea lost :-(
We don't have enough space here to share all the happy and fun memories of Del. Everyone loved him at work, on the golf course, at the pub, at the F1 races and of course loved his trademark dance :-)
Just like his other friends have said on this page, it is hard for me to put into words just how special a person Derek was. My daughters God Father, my Golf Partner and my Best Friend who was always there for me. He’s missed but will always be with us….. Alan & Sophie xxx
Moore, Peters, Kirby
Ryder Cup Lads
Boleyn Ground (Upton Park)
setting the dance floor ablaze
May, 2015....Del’s last visit to Michigan. ❤️ The boys are back!! 🎶
Chelsea lost :-(
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