Masako "Katie" (Kobashigawa) Kirby

Masako "Katie" Kirby, 91, of Elyria passed away peacefully in her sleep, Sunday, June 15th, 2025.  Masako was born in Okinawa, Japan before moving to the United States in 1960.  She enjoyed cooking, gardening, tending to her flowers and watching her Cleveland Indians. She cherished spending time with her family and doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a strong, beautiful, kindhearted woman and if you knew her for five minutes, you fell in love with her. 

She is survived by sons Ron (Mary) Kirby of San Antonio, Texas, Thom (Michele) Kirby of Grafton, and Don (Laura) Kirby of Elyria: 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; sisters Fumiko, Yoko, and Junko; brother Hideo, and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Kirby; daughter Linda Kirby: parents Eiho and Chiyo Kobashigawa. 

The family would like to thank the caring nurses, aides, therapists, staff, and helpers at Life Care Center of Elyria for all their love and care and making her time so enjoyable and comfortable. 

In accordance with her wishes, the family will hold a private graveside service. 

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