Thank you for considering a donation to PanCan on behalf of Kirby.
Kirby John O’Gara of Lago Vista, Texas passed away from pancreatic cancer on March 21, 2024 at the age of 62. He was born on May 13, 1961 in Chula Vista, California and spent his life in California and Texas. Kirby was a beloved father, husband, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Kirby graduated from Hilltop High School in Chula Vista, California in 1979. Growing up, Kirby played baseball and guitar, was a Padres and Chargers fan, loved being outdoors, and hanging with friends while tanning at the beach. He was well loved by everyone he encountered and his infectious smile and penchant for laughter always provided a welcome sight for old friends and new.
Kirby dedicated over 25 years to working at Marriott Hotels before retiring in 2020. He began his time as an overnight mechanic, eventually working his way up to serving in the role of Director of Engineering. Kirby was known for his exceptional work ethic, as well as his care and appreciation for his employees.
More than anything, Kirby was a family man. He met his wife, Beth O’Gara (Findley), at a company party in San Diego, California. The two were together for several years before marrying in 1996. Apart from San Diego, they also resided in Santa Clara (CA), Houston (TX), Indio (CA), and Lago Vista (TX). The two always enjoyed socializing with friends and neighbors, dining out, and more recently, traveling the world with family.
Kirby and Beth raised three children: John, Ben, and Kyle. Kirby’s interests often mirrored that of his kids. This included playing golf, attending Astros/Texans games, boating on the lake, cheering on college sports teams, and anything that provided an opportunity to spend time together. He was such a proud father of each of his boys and shared their accomplishments with friends to no end. Kirby also loved his two daughters-in-law, Meggan and Rebecca, as if they were his own.
He was known for always spoiling those he cared about, never adhering to a Christmas gift limit and if you ever even inquired interest in something, you could guarantee an Amazon package with that item would quickly arrive on your doorstep. Kirby would buy his grandson ice cream, popcorn, candy (or whatever else he wanted) at his every request. He loved being a grandpa to Mason and Sophie, and he was excitedly looking forward to welcoming a new grandson in August 2024.
Kirby was close with his mother Kay. They would often talk sports and the woes of their San Diego Padres struggles. His sister Frannie was also one of his biggest supporters both growing up and later in life. He always had a place in his heart for all of his siblings, nieces, nephews, in-laws, out-laws, and friends.
Initially persuaded by his children, he was also a dog dad and loved his golden retrievers Dodger, Pongo, Arrow, and their current pup, Bucky.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Baylor Scott and White in Temple, Texas for the care and compassion they showed Kirby in his final days.
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