Bruce Mark Kirby

Bruce Mark Kirby passed away Thursday, January 30th surrounded by loving family after a short illness. Bruce was born in Leesburg, the son of Paul and Elizabeth (Taylor) Kirby. His father owned Kirby's Barbershop for many years and his mother ran Kirby's Restaurant (Cactus Grill) across from the high school and fed many working men and LHS students their breakfast and lunch. This was Bruce's foundation and he spent his entire lifetime a committed and connected citizen and pillar of his Leesburg community. Bruce began his professional life first in the field of motorcycle mechanics building dirt bike racers, which he raced in many racing events, including beach racing. He became a very accomplished rider earning the nickname "Bounty Hunter" because of his countless wins. He began his love of motorcycles early working at Honda of Leesburg and Jim Asmus's Yahama honing his skills and expertise. In 1974, Bruce began working for the City of Leesburg as a firefighter/EMT. He was the first firefighter of the Leesburg Fire Department to be certified and receive his credentials as a smoke diver from the Florida State Fire College in Ocala. In 1984, Bruce was injured in the line of duty while clearing a two-story fire on Main Street when he fell through the top floor. The injury to his back ended his 10-year career as a firefighter. During his year-long recovery, he worked in accounting at Leesburg City Hall. Then in 1985, he transferred to the City of Leesburg Electric Department holding several positions before becoming the Contract Supervisor. For over 23 years, he handled all contract labor and managed the placement of all underground utilities. Bruce was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting, camping, fishing, and was a gun and archery enthusiast. He loved taking his children and grandchildren fishing and hunting and teaching them about nature and respecting the land. He loved dogs and had several in his lifetime who were his best friends. In his love for outdoor sports, Bruce was a six-time State and two-time International FAA Champion Archer. Bruce loved music and played several instruments. During the last four years of his life, he greatly enjoyed being a part-time member/roadie of the local band Justin Heet helping them set up and tear down for gigs. Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Debrah. He also leaves behind a daughter Brandy Byerley (husband Chris), son Wesley (wife Jessica), grandchildren Skyler, Ian, Eden, Evin, Madison, Kaitlyn, and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Bruce's life will be held on Sunday, February 9th at 2:30 pm at Beyers Funeral Home Chapel in Leesburg. Visitation for family and friends will be from 1:30-2:30 pm. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ASPCA. Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home, Leesburg. Online condolences may be left at www.beyersfuneralhome.com

Bruce Mark Kirby

August 2, 1951 - January 30, 2020