Arthur Vincent Kirkby, age 74, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2022 at the Dr. Everett Chalmer’s Hospital in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Arthur was born in 1948 in Calgary, Alberta to the late Arthur Kirkby and Kathleen Kirkby (nee Moore). He graduated from High School (after several years in grade 12, as he liked to joke) in 1968. He spent his early years as a guitar player in a rock band before deciding to pursue a more reliable job. He landed in the insurance industry where he met the love of his life, Deborah. They raised their family in Toronto for many years before relocating to New Brunswick where Arthur started his own consulting business. He was also a writer who had several humourous articles published in various magazines.
Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, and his two older sisters, Patricia Jones and Edith Terzi. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Deborah Kirkby (nee Little). The couple's love and devotion to each other was unmatched; into his 70s, Arthur was still overheard to comment how 'cute' he thought his wife was. He is also survived by his three daughters: Victoria (Daniel), Cynthia, and Julia (Jeff), his two granddaughters: Jade and Violet, his grandson Samuel, and many nieces and nephews across Canada.
Arthur was beloved for his intelligence, humour, and compassion. He was always available to help a family member (or a friend of a family member) and he was a steady rock for his daughters and grandchildren. A self educated Buddhist scholar who loved sharing words of wisdom, he also loved a good argument and would happily debate any subject at length. His final years were spent doing what he enjoyed most - following and commenting on current events, listening to old time radio shows with a cat on his lap, devoting time to meditation and enjoying long dinners full of lively conversation with his treasured wife. He will be missed beyond measure.
A memorial for Arthur will be held in Fredericton, NB in the coming months. The date is yet to be announced. Donations in his name can be sent to a humanitarian, indigenous, or conservation charity of the donor's choice.