Photo courtesy of Rindskopf-Roth Funeral Chapel - Saint Louis
Oct 31, 1935 - Jan 19, 2026
In loving memory of a wonderful Grandpa. We will love you and miss you always.
Ashley Kirby
January 21, 2026 | Columbia, IL | Grandchild
Dan, I am so sorry to hear of your dad‘s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers along with your family.
Debbie Krr
January 20, 2026 | DeFuniak Springs, FL | Friend
Douglas G. Kirby passed away peacefully Monday, January 19th surrounded by his family. Douglas was the beloved husband of Doris C. Kirby, devoted father of Stephen A. Kirby, Kathleen L. Kirby, and Daniel S. (Cynthia) Kirby, and cherished grandfather of Christina, Ashley, Brent, Sierra, Nicole, Rachel, and Armando “AJ.” He was the adored great-grandfather of Zoè, Samuel, Dominic, Layla, and Raegan.
Douglas was the loving brother of Jack (Peggy) Kirby and half-brother of Susie (Paul) Panus, Kiley (Roberta) Kirby, and Patricia (Damien) Mulvany; and was preceded in death by Walter (Janice) Kolano, Christine Kolano, Charlotte (the late Ray) Thomas, Denise (the late Edward) Rodgers, and Jennifer (Paul) Dreste. Beloved son of the late William “Bud” Kirby and Elba Kolano. He will also be remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Douglas worked as an electrician for more than 50 years, always dedicated to his craft and eager to create and improve the world around him. His creativity and hands-on ingenuity led him to countless home projects—tearing down and rebuilding space to match his meticulous vision—and to handcrafting inventions from spare parts, including an electric mini-bike and a go-kart for his kids.
A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Douglas especially loved his BMW and often rode cross-country to California and Florida for racing events, once making the drive home from California in just over a day. He shared his love of riding with his sons, creating memories that will last forever.
At age 42, Douglas took up running and went on to complete seven marathons, consistently excelling in his age group. He also enjoyed bowling and once bowled a near-perfect game of 279, a proud accomplishment shared with Doris, his bowling partner and the love of his life.
A faithful Catholic, Douglas attended church regularly until his health no longer allowed. He and Doris shared an extraordinary 71-year marriage that began when they met as high school freshmen — truly a story of “love at first sight, and love forever.”
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Douglas will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and devotion to his family.
Services: Funeral service Friday, January 23, at 1:00 p.m. at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery, 8430 Gravois Road. Informal visitation at 12:30 p.m. inside the mausoleum chapel, followed by the service and burial.
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