Kris was an incredible blend of so many talents and strengths.  A loving father…a cherished friend…a brilliant business owner.  I think for many of us we’d hope to look in the mirror each day and see Kris – in so many ways he was the reflection of a man you’d want to be.  He was kind, supportive, honest, intelligent, fun, outgoing, adventurous… 

But where do we go from here…how do the memories live on and how do they inspire us?  Amidst the shock, my mind races…Kris brought calm, honesty, and leadership…he worked tirelessly to provide for his family – they meant everything to him. 

As friends we are called to support his family, to support each other, and to let his life continue to inspire how we live ours.  It’s hard to put together coherent sentences.  Countless people loved Kris and countless people will miss him.  The loss of Kris brings pause – a jolt to the core on what really matters in life.  Kirby kids – your dad was awesome!  He was a blessing to all!  It’s unlikely that any of us can relate to what you are feeling right now but those feelings are real and legit.  Know that there is a community of dudes that loved your dad very much and know that we love you.  We want to support you however and as best we can.  You have full freedom to be bold…speak your needs…make your requests known.  We want to help even if we don’t know how. 

Our daily prayers remain with you and for you!  May God show His face and mercy…may He generously poor out moments of peace.  May you find little moments of comfort with each other AND with those around you.  Remember that your dad loves you infinitely, he made the world a better place and much like he shaped you – he shaped so many others who were blessed with the chance to know him.  His life will forever change me and will bring a renewed focus to what matters most in life.  His legacy will live on as his story is shared with countless other people and lives will continue to change because of the man Kris was. 

Lord, we thank you for our time with him.  We pray that you keep him close in our hearts and that the reminders are ever present.  We also ask that you take him to all the best fishing spots in heaven and that he gets to show the disciples how to really fish.  Lord, while this makes no sense – we ask that you help us to somehow trust.  We need your love. 

We miss you good buddy.

- Josh Gerber