A military style service was held for Deputy Sheriff Kirby Fahlman in Kelowna on March 21, 2010. She was carried in by beloved fellow comrades accompanied by a bag piper playing “ Amazing Grace “ and “ Scotland the Brave “. Her casket was topped by the Canadian flag, her Forge cap and gloves, and duty belt. Her former pastor, Ken Cyr, officiated. Kim Unsworth (one of her courthouse family) sang a cappella beautifully and movingly. The eulogy was given by best school friend Ashley Posnikoff and her sister Stacy. They spoke of Kirby’s many accomplishments, and how she packed more life into her 25 years than most do in twice that time. She had a very strong sense of right and wrong, and spent much of her life encouraging and motivating others, seeking justice for others. She was a perfectionist and excelled at all she tried including school sports, riding horses, cattle penning, handling animals, surveying in the forest, working at Postill’s riding arena in Vernon, gardening, gourmet cooking - creating her own recipes - becoming a Sheriff and graduating at the top of the class with one of her pall bearers. Then, of course, there was boxing, making us all proud. She was a co-founder and business owner of Thistletown Boxing Club. Former Arrow Lakes News editor, Adrienne Mercer, wrote a letter showing her close relationship and inside knowledge of Kirby’s heart and talents, and how Kirby touched her life. Boxing coach, Graham McIntosh, spoke of Kirby’s unique championship sportsmanship qualities in her newfound sport of traditional boxing. In a short time, less than 20 bouts, Kirby won for herself:
- Two time B.C. Golden Gloves champion
- Alberta Golden Gloves champion
- Two time B.C. Provincial champion
- Quebec Cup champion (International)
- World Police and Fire Game Gold Medal Champion
- Competing in the last two National Championships
- Best Boxer and Best Fight Distinctions
One of Kirby’s goals was to participate in the 2012 Olympics and to be a specialist in Sports Physiotherapy. With her skill, determination & intelligence, we know she would have succeeded. In attendance were the Kelowna Court house staff, the Judiciary and numerous outside agencies; such as the RCMPolice, commissionaires. representatives form Boxing Canada and Boxing B.C. along with family and friends. Kirby’s service was so well attended people were directed to an overflow area. Cam Johannson presented the Canadian flag, forge cap and gloves to Kirby’s mother. The Sheriffs formed an honor guard path for the congregation to enter the tea room. Thistletown Boxing Club along with the Kelowna Boxing Club plans to have an annual “ Kirby Fahlman Memorial Boxing Tournament “ .
Kirby is going to be greatly missed, especially for her humor, quick wit and most of all, that radiant smile.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Thistletown Boxing Club - a non - profit society, at #105 - 1054 Ellis St., Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 1Z1 for the express purpose of funding underprivileged youth.
www.thistletownboxingclub.com -Stories/Condolences