Obituary of William Kirby Kittoe

It was while working at the ranch in 1976 that Kirby met his current wife Joan Hibbard. Together they moved to Aptos, and married in 1982. After 25 years of working as a counselor Kirby retired from Gilroy, but didn't slow down. He continued to work part time as a juvenile probation officer in Santa Cruz for another 15 years. During this time, he rediscovered his passion for target shooting. Kirby had fond memories of target shooting with his father in the fields of Yakima. He took his hobby one step further and worked at Markley's Gun Shop in Watsonville, where he enjoyed teaching not only his customers, but his family as well. On days off, Kirby and Joan walked with friends along Seacliff Beach, talking, and enjoying the beauty of Monterey Bay. Kirby could carry on a great conversation and always made you feel special because he was a great listener. Kirby is survived by his loving wife of 29 years Joan Kittoe; his former wife Judy Kittoe; his children Jennifer Kittoe (Robert Morris), Mark Kittoe (Amarilis) and his family by marriage; Kathy, Larry, Jenine (Scott), & Greg; his brother Ed Kitteo (Judy); his nieces Hilary and Kendra; his sister Mary Smith; grandchildren Laisa, Hannah, Amanda, Nathan, & Sarah, and 3 great-grandchildren: Hunter, Tailin and Natalie. In Lieu of flowers please send contributions to the charity of your choice in Kirby's name. Kirby will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and will forever be remembered as a kind, sweet, gentle and loving man. He cared deeply for God, his family, his friends, his pets, the environment, and all who had the honor and privilege of knowing him.