Elzie Kirby

Elzie Arlando Kirby, 96, of Anna, IL formerly of Bowen, IL died at 11:45 am Wednesday November 10, 2021 at the Illinois Veterans Home in Anna, IL.

He was born on July 16, 1925 in Bowen, IL to Roy and Grace Russ Kirby. He married Alberta S. Klingler on October 22, 1949 in Sutter, IL. She survives.

Elzie was a lifelong farmer in the Bowen area until his retirement. Besides farming, Elzie worked part time at the Crossland meat locker in Bowen.  He was a graduate of Bowen High School, where he enjoyed running track. Elzie served his country with the United States Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946, in WWII, where he was in the battle of Iwo Jima.  He was then in Japan, after the atomic bombing.  Elzie enjoyed many activities; playing softball, cards, bowling, pitching horseshoes and camping. He was a member of the Living Faith United Methodist Church, in Bowen, IL.

Elzie is survived by his wife, Alberta Kirby of Anna; his son, Alan (Linda) Kirby of Vienna; a daughter, Marsha Icenogle of Macomb; three grandchildren; Makenzie (Nathan) Spinks of Vienna, Ehren (Brandi) Kirby of Marion, Andrew (Jordan) Kirby of Anna; two great grandchildren; Andersyn and Adley, along with his third great grandchild expected in January.

He was preceded in death by Father Roy Mother Grace Kirby, a brother Marvin Kirby and a sister Lillian McClain.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday November 16, 2021 at the Living Faith United Methodist Church in Bowen, IL with Pastor Sheri Renner officiating. Burial with Military Honors by the United States Marine Corps Military Honors Detail and the Hancock County Honor Guard will be in Bowen cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 Monday at the Living Faith United Methodist Church in Bowen, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to Living Faith United Methodist Church of Bowen, Bowen Ballpark or Great River Honor Flight.

The Hamilton Funeral Home in Augusta, IL is handling arrangements