Anne Kirby

Anne Nicolas Kirby June 9, 1930 - Oct. 19, 2010 Following a brief illness, our beloved Anne passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on October 19 at El Camino Hospital. She was 80. Anne was born and raised in Minneapolis. She attended the University of Minnesota and was a member of Alpha Phi sorority. In 1955 she moved to San Francisco where she worked as an assistant to John Merrill of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. An avid skier, she later worked in the public relations department for the VIII Olympic Winter Games at Squaw Valley. It was at this time that she met the love of her life, David Kirby. Anne and Dave were married in 1960 in San Francisco and celebrated their 50th anniversary this past July. They moved to Palo Alto when Dave was hired by David Packard to create the public relations department at Hewlett-Packard. Anne was active in campaigns for various political candidates, including friend and Congressman Pete McCloskey. She was instrumental in electing State Senator Joe Simitian to his first political office as President of the Palo Alto School Board. Anne was an avid gardener. She was a longtime member of both the Elizabeth Gamble Garden Club and the Palo Alto Garden Club. An adventurous and talented cook, she often incorporated many of the organic vegetables she grew into her favorite dishes. Anne was an avid reader who loved words and ideas. Her love of children lead her to teach creative writing to young minds, and volunteer in the guidance office at Palo Alto High School. She enjoyed watercolor painting, knitting and quilting. She and her husband traveled to Europe several times and especially enjoyed England and France. She adored family summers at Seacliff Beach in Aptos. Anne is survived by her husband David Kirby of Palo Alto, son Daniel Kirby of San Jose (Sheree), John Kirby of Portland, OR, and daughter Rachel Fitzgibbon of Essex, MA (Robert). Also surviving are five granddaughters, a step grandson, and Anne's beloved sister, Virginia Wilkinson of Portland, OR. Anne was the center of communications for a variety of extended family, and her many emails, notes and calls will be greatly missed. A celebration of Anne's life will be held on a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of one's choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Alta Mesa Funeral Home in Palo Alto.