Kirby Joseph Harder

Kirby Joseph Harder passed away peacefully on February 25, 2024, at Justin T Rodgers Hospice Care Center in Copley, Ohio.
Kirby was born September 24,1942 in Greensboro, North Carolina. He moved with his family to Akron, Ohio in 1950. He graduated from Buchtel High School and went on to earn his BA in Education and MA in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Akron.
He worked at PPG Industries as a lab technician while attending college. He made many lifelong friends during this time. After he graduated from college, he taught English at Wadsworth High School. Upon completion of his master’s degree he was hired as the Norton Middle School Guidance Counselor. He retired after 35 years.

He enjoyed boating, staying at the lake house, and traveling with family and friends. He looked forward to special family vacations to the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Disney World, and Universal Studios. His grandchildren, Kaila, Pierson, Kirby III, and Jase, brought him immense happiness and filled his life with new adventures.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Kirby Jr. (Christine), Kristin Barker (Jason); sister Mary Kipka of Indianapolis, brother Michael, sister-in-law Linda O'Brien (Dan), brother-in-law John Swartz and grandchildren: Kaila and Pierson Kovick, Kirby Harder III and Jase Barker; as well as many amazing nieces and nephews.

Per his wishes there will be no calling hours and private services will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Justin T Rodgers Hospice Center ( www.myclevelandclinic.org ) or Copley Paramedics. ( www.copley.oh.us>fire )

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333.