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John Robert Irby, 76, passed peacefully with his wife Lisa by his side after battling an infection. John was born in California to Robert and Pauline Irby. He and his sisters Reba and Susan had so many fun stories of the life of being a preacher's kid and growing up in a time when life was simpler, gas was cheap, and music was memorable.
John and Lisa raised four sons – Derren (Sarakinlan), Dustin (Victoria), Noah (Cherish) and Hank (Lora) – all of whom John loved deeply and was so very proud. He adored his three grandchildren – Timoteo, Violet and Olivia – and treasured that he was recently able to see each of them.
He loved his career as a newspaper journalist, editor and publisher as it brought many adventures and moves throughout the country. His eight years teaching at Washington State University in Pullman held a special place in his heart. He loved seeing how the young lives he helped influence had gone on to make a difference in their communities.
After retiring 15 years ago, John focused on writing a few books, very much enjoyed his church family, and traveled when he could. He and Lisa were grateful to have served as missionaries in Honduras for a year learning so many life lessons. It was in Honduras John got his dog Novia who was his constant companion.
John also helped care for Lisa's mother Violet in her final years, which finally brought them to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. John was not shy to say "I did not sign up for this!" each of the winters he lived up north.
With his outlook tainted by serious health issues over the past five years, John's favorite saying, however, was "getting old ain't for sissies," a phrase he borrowed from a close friend down south. John's advice was "Don't get old (or at least stay healthy for as long as you can)."
The family will hold a small private service at a later date. But, as John would say to EVERYONE, you are all welcome at the Church of Christ anytime!
In lieu of flowers or donations to a specific charity, please just be kind to someone, bring a smile or a laugh to another human being, show in just some small way the love this world so desperately needs. John would have loved to see that chain reaction of goodness!
The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family. To share condolences with the family, please visit www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.
