BOB KIRBY NAMED SOUTHCENTRAL KENTUCKIAN OF THE YEAR

Bob Kirby Named 2016 South Central Kentuckian of the Year

Bob Kirby is the fifth honoree selected for the South Central Kentuckian award given by The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky. Several community members, friends and family gave him a standing ovation during the luncheon honoring him for his individual contributions to the community and philanthropic causes. .

The South Central Kentuckian of the Year Award annually honors an individual or organization for excellence in leadership as demonstrated by outstanding initiative, impact of work and inspiration of others. The purpose of this award is to honor people in the community who are making significant contributions through their life’s work.

Bob was born in Murray, Kentucky, but has been a resident of Warren County for most of his life. After graduating from Bowling Green High School in 1951, he served as a Sergeant in the 25th Infantry Division in Korea. After military service, he graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce and from the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University in 1978. He and his wife, Norma Jean, have four children; Kent Kirby, Kim Kirby, Kay Roberts and Gena Gooding. They also have six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Bob and Norma Jean have been married for 64 years.

 


Bob Kirby South Central Kentuckian of the Year 2016
ACTIVITIES—CURRENT AND PAST
  • Sergeant 25th Infantry Division - Korea
  • Salvation Army – lifetime member – currently in his 42nd year
  • Western Kentucky University – Board of Advisors
  • Bowling Green Warren County Chamber of Commerce
  • South Central Kentucky Community and Technical College Foundation – Founding Board MemberCommonwealth Health Foundation – Founding Board Member
  • Historical Rail Park and Train Museum – Founding Board Member
  • Bowling Green Warren County Community Foundation (now called Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky) – Founding Board Member
  • United Way of South Central Kentucky – Board Member (1983-1985)
  • United Way of South Central Kentucky – Campaign Chair (1982 and 1986)
  • Warren County Public Library – Former Board Member (1997-1999)
  • Western Kentucky University National Alumni Association – Former President (1999-2000)
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
  • Central Kentucky Jefferson Award – 1999
  • Western Kentucky University Summit Award – 2001
  • Bowling Green High School Hall of Honor - 2003
  • Warren County Citizen of the Year, presented by Noon Lions Club – 2003
  • Junior Achievement Business Person of the Year - 2008
  • Naming of Bob Kirby Branch of Warren County Public Library