In appreciation, with respect and affection: Ed Kirby

Ed Kirby was my friend. We go way back. I remember being intimidated as a freshman at HVRHS when I saw Ed with his love and commitment to baseball. Our relationship never stopped growing since then. Part of that growing involved a five-pound, 200-page baseball handbook that was required reading if you wanted to play baseball at Housatonic.

Coach Kirby worked the hell out of me when he saw I might have some pro baseball possibilities. 

It wasn’t until much later when I realized why he was so tough on me. He knew if I got signed to go pro how hard it would be and how much work and discipline it would take. I thank him to this day for how he prepared me for all that. It was a big factor in my making it to the major leagues.

But there was so much more to Ed than baseball. So many aspects of his talent. So aware of the world around him. His accomplishments have been duly acknowledged, properly so.

Karen and I are so lucky to have crossed paths with Ed and Mary and the entire Kirby clan.

One last thought: You had to be pretty darn good to pitch for Ed Kirby. I am so proud I was good enough.

There is nothing better than being cared about and loved. Ed, you were and you are.

Rest easy, you’ve earned it.

P.S. So proud to be a member of your Wildcat Gorge Boozing and Wilderness Society. 

Steve Blass

Bradenton, Fla.