Alvah Kerby

Alvah Loren Kerby aka “Kerby” of Platte City, MO passed away peacefully on December 5, 2023, at the age of 89. Kerby was born on January 16th, 1934, to Alvah Vincent Kerby and Lillie Victoria (Peterson) Kerby in Bonner Springs KS, where he grew up and attended school. In 1952 he joined the Navy serving on the USS Colonial during the Korean War, where he suffered a broken ear drum from a gun turret. Kerby held several jobs such as a gas station attendant, milk man, and painter prior to settling into a career as a teamster trucker driving for Fleming Foods. He then married Helen, the love of his life, and became “Dad” to Mike and Shelly.

Kerby loved the lake where boating became a big part of the family’s summer activity. He took great pride in playing the role of Captain, and taught numerous family members and friends how to water ski. If you knew Kerby, you knew he also liked his vehicles and Folger’s coffee. He always had a new vehicle, new trailer, new boat, etc., and a fresh cup of Folgers close by. He would never rush a visit or conversation as he truly enjoyed fellowship.

In his spare time, he volunteered at various functions such as the 1st Christian Church Hot Dog Ministry, the Kerby Family Pumpkin Patch, and when it snowed, he was out blading neighbors’ driveways. Kerby thoroughly enjoyed creating woodworking and metal projects. He had a wood shop and welding area in every home he owned. One of the coolest wood projects he made was a cradle his grandkids slept in, and one of the coolest metal projects was an “Air Tailgate” for his son’s pick up. He treasured his family, especially the grandkids. He loved caring for them, and being active in their lives. He enjoyed traveling, pulling the 5th wheel all over the country, snow birding in Arizona and Texas, and attending USS Colonial Navy reunions, later becoming the Treasurer of the reunion committee.

Upon Helen’s passing, Kerby chose to escape winter, and spend more time with his family in Arizona. With the help of his family, the perfect place was found for Kerby, Acoya of Mesa. Upon arrival, Kerby was welcomed with open arms. He had a balcony viewing the Superstition Mountains, started meeting new friends, and partaking in daily social events. Kerby was now living on a cruise ship without water. It did not take long for his infectious charisma to kick in, and along with his family the Acoya staff spoiled him rotten. He enjoyed this time with family especially when the grandkids would play the piano, sing at karaoke, and bring him his favorite foods. Kerby loved visiting, and was very appreciative of those who traveled to Arizona to see him, Chis and Carol, Charlie, Wanda & Vernon, Glenda, Shelly, Steve, Scott, Courtney & Andy.

Kerby will be remembered for being a loving husband, father, uncle, special poppy & papa, and an all-around stand-up guy. He enjoyed the days at the lake on the pontoon boat and all the family gatherings in Bonner & Branson. He was loved by all who knew him.

Kerby was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Helen (Olsen) Kerby of 48 years, and siblings; Josephine, Dorothy, Lymon, Marlin, Betty, Shirley, Leslie, Charlene, and Dewayne.

Survivors include his children; Mike (Debbie) Mc Neal and Shelly (Steve) Taylor and Kim (Rick) Rochetto and Michael Kerby; 12 grandchildren, great grandchildren, several nieces, and nephews as well as numerous family and friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at ACOYA Mesa, Advanced Healthcare of Mesa, Aegis Home Health & Hospice, and the Platte City VA for the wonderful care and support they provided to Kerby.

Funeral services will be held at Barry Christian Church, 1500 NW Barry Rd, KC, MO 64155 on December 29, 2023, Visitation at noon, Service at 1p, Procession to Terrace Park Cemetery immediately following. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Barry Christian Church.