Duane Paul Kirkbride. age 74, a resident of Homer City, PA passed away peacefully on October 28, 2023, at IRMC, Indiana, PA surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Zanesville, OH on June 23, 1949, to Paul William Kirkbride and Betty Jean (Crites) Kirkbride.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” While Duane was intellectually disabled from birth, he was viewed by his family as a special God-given gift. His childlike nature was greatly loved by all who knew him, and he had a way of passing on that childlike wonder for life to all with whom he spent his days.
Family meant the world to Duane, and he cherished every visit, phone call, and especially the cards that arrived with pictures and dollars tucked inside. He loved Jesus and knew there is power in prayer. When he was sick or hurt, he found comfort in asking others to pray for him; and likewise, when others were sick or hurt, he would request prayers for them. He had a bright smile, outgoing demeanor, and kind heart that left an indelible mark on the hearts of those whose path he crossed. If you were fortunate enough to be at Walmart and hear him call out, “Hey, Buddy” as he reached out to shake your hand, you knew you were blessed.
Duane had a childlike excitement for birthdays, family events, and special activities. His excitement was contagious and carried over to his family and Lifesteps staff who shared these activities with him. He delighted in simple pleasures such as bowling, shopping, and eating out. He especially looked forward to Valentine’s Day, Easter, his annual meeting at ICOR, June family reunions, Idlewild, Starlit Night, Indiana County Fair, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Actually, every day was special to Duane, and he had a remarkable ability to share his zest for life with everyone around him. He shared his mother’s love of animals, could be stubborn, had a great sense of humor, and loved jokes, his favorite being Knock Knock jokes.
Duane resided in a Lifesteps group home since 1998, most recently in Homer City where he received daily love and care from his special house staff and enjoyed the company of his two housemates. He is survived by his siblings, Murray, Sue, Crystal, Kandi, and Dan; sister-in-law, Sue; half-sister, Ruth Ann; Aunt Meri; special Mom #2, Ethel; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, and beloved older brother, David.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, Nov. 2nd from 6 to 8 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville. A celebration of life will be held on Friday at 11 AM with Pastor Fred Craig officiating.
The family is requesting donations in lieu of flowers to Four Foot Friends, 220 Beck Rd, Indiana, PA 15701 or Lifesteps, 383 New Castle Rd, Butler, PA 16001 in Duane’s memory.
Interment will be in the Oakland Cemetery, Indiana, PA.
Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
