Obituary of Muriel Grace KIRKBY (nee McLeod)

August 10, 1929 – Shoal Lake, Manitoba

January 29, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Muriel Grace Kirkby of Calgary, Alberta, beloved Mother and Grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 years on Friday, January 29, 2021.

Muriel was born in Shoal Lake, Manitoba in 1929 and attended Raven Lake School and Shoal Lake High School.  She was the youngest of eight children and was fondly referred to as Toots.

Muriel married George Kirkby in 1947 in Shoal Lake, Manitoba, and later that year they moved to Toronto, Ontario.  Their first child Marilyn was born in Toronto in 1948.  The following year they left Toronto and moved to Winnipeg where their son Bill was born.

Muriel was a busy homemaker but found time to enjoy her cookbook club, sewing, baking, and attending her large garden allotment. Over the next fifteen years they went on to have four more children: Rita (Forbes), Lorne (Leona), Kathy (Fred), and Tracey (Dean).

Muriel moved west to Calgary in 1972 with the three youngest of her children to begin a new life. In Calgary she started a career in Accounts Payable in the transportation industry. She was fortunate to have six loving grandchildren: Kristen (KC), Meghan, Ryan, Jenna (Joey), Braedon, and Aaron who all brought her much happiness and laughter over the years. She was always interested in the events of her family’s lives.

When she retired in 1994, Muriel spent her time gardening, going for walks and even dabbled in golf.  She also was able to enjoy many memorable trips with her children which she cherished.  In her later years, her favorite things to do were watch old movies (especially Westerns), enjoy her evening ritual of watching NCIS, and playing along with Jeopardy.

Muriel was predeceased by her daughter Marilyn (2017), and her son Bill (2002).

Mom is most remembered for her strong independence, unbelievable stamina, willingness to help, and sense of humor.  You lead us by example and as a result taught us all to be strong. We live that everyday in your honour.

You will forever be in our hearts.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Muriel’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Lung Association, P.O. Box 4500, Station South, Edmonton, AB T6E 6K2 Telephone: 1 (888) 566 – 5864.  www.ab.lung.ca.