It was a sad Christmas for many people in the area as we lost a dear friend.
On Dec. 21 Kirby Herr succumbed to what was a long and courageous battle with cancer.
I did not get a chance to say good-bye, or even a chance to tell Kirby how much his friendship meant to me over the years.
We all do it, we are all guilty of losing touch with those who have meant so much to us. Unfortunately, and often painfully, we do not realize it until it is too late.
Kirby, I am sorry this is late, but I want you to know how much your friendship meant to me.
You were a wonderful friend who welcomed a lost, chubby young man to a new community and made High River feel like, well, home.
I just moved to High River and did not know a soul, but you were among the people who made sure I was included. In doing so I developed incredible friendships which have lasted 20 years.
You were always doing those little things for people, and although you may not have realized it at the time, your gestures, no matter how large or small, had a profound impact on those around you.
Whether it was an invitation for dinner, a beer in your garage or sneaking a Spiderman decal on my truck for my birthday, these are the things which made you beloved in the community.
You were a character who carried toilet paper wherever you went, would sing “Flip, Flop and Fly” for no reason and if you had your druthers Bud would be the only beer available.
Just thinking about it is making me laugh. Thanks Kirby, I needed that.
I know over the years we only saw each other sporadically, but when we did it was as though not a day had passed. Your larger than life persona and gregarious laugh had me smiling the moment you walked in the room.
Kirby, like many people in the community, I will miss you and already do. However, I hope you know how much you meant to your family, friends and community.
I would not be where I am without you and I am proud to call you my friend. Farewell and go Riders!
