United Community, Unlimited Potential: Bob Kirkbride
Born and raised in Marietta, Bob Kirkbride’s early years were steeped in values of hard work and community spirit.
“Growing up in Marietta taught me the importance of community and the power of coming together to support one another,” Bob recalled. This foundation guided him through every chapter of his life.
After high school, he attended the College of Wooster, a decision that set the stage for his future endeavors. However, the Vietnam War draft loomed large, prompting Bob to serve his country by joining the Air Force after college.
For eight years, Bob served as a missile launch officer, a role that led him to the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas. “Working at NASA was an incredible experience. It honed my skills and introduced me to my wife, Janeen,” Bob reminisced. Together, they navigated the twists and turns of life, their love a constant beacon of light.
Bob’s military career concluded on August 31, 1970, marking the beginning of a new chapter. His first civilian job as the Financial Controller for Revenue at the University of Houston set the stage for his eventual return to Marietta. His skills and experience caught the eye of Marietta College, where he applied for and secured the position of Financial Vice President. “Coming back to Marietta felt like coming home,” Bob reflected. “I was eager to give back to the community that had given me so much.”
While at Marietta College, Bob developed a close friendship with trustee Bill Mildren Sr. Although the Foundation was originally established in 1974 as part of the Restoration ‘76 program, it remained inactive for years. In 1992, Bill saw an opportunity to bring the dormant Foundation back to life. Knowing Bob’s experience with the University of Houston Foundation, Bill reached out to him, hoping that he would breathe new life into the initiative
With characteristic dedication, Bob began the process of revitalizing Marietta Community Foundation.
He reached out to the Council on Foundations, forming a steering committee with notable figures such as Bill Mildren, Dave Baker, Carl Broughton, Frances Flanders, Elizabeth Hadler, Norman Murray, Emmett Smelser, and Teri Ann Zide.
“We met every month at the Lafayette Hotel, often gathering around the round table in the back of the Gun Room to talk about new ideas and initiatives for our community,” Bob recalled. These meetings laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of the community.
One unique aspect of the Foundation, adamantly upheld by Bob, was the decision not to charge administrative fees. “We wanted to ensure that every dollar donated went directly to supporting the community,” Bob explained.
This commitment set Marietta Community Foundation apart and established a model of transparency and trust. Bob was elected Chairman of the Board, and due to a lack of funds, he became the “de facto” executive director, serving from 1992 to 1996. “I believe in the importance of bringing new perspectives to the board, ensuring the Foundation’s continuous growth and adaptation, so I did not serve long,” Bob noted.
Bob’s dedication was deeply rooted in his unwavering belief in the impact a united community could achieve. He saw the Foundation as a vehicle for change, a means to address the needs of Marietta and to uplift those who needed it most.
“I always believed that by pooling our resources and working together, we could make a significant difference,” Bob reflected.
This belief was validated in a pivotal moment on Christmas Eve of 1994 when Lillian Strecker Smith gifted the Foundation $2.5 million from her estate.
This transformative gift was a testament to the community’s trust and faith in the steering committee’s vision. “Lillian’s decision to leave her gift with the Foundation, guided by the wise counsel of Beth Worthington, Karen Osborne, and Jerry Brock, was a turning point for us,” Bob reflected. “Their advice not only validated our efforts but also propelled the Foundation to new heights of impact in the community. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to them for their invaluable support and guidance.”
Decades later, the spirit of giving continued to resonate within Bob’s own family. In 2011, Bob and his wife, Janeen, established the Michael Kirkbride Memorial Fund, a donor-advised fund created in memory of their son. This personal connection to the Foundation adds a poignant layer to his legacy, reflecting his enduring commitment to his family and community.
Reflecting on the Foundation’s journey, Bob often expresses a profound sense of amazement and gratitude. “I could only ever dream that Marietta Community Foundation would grow into the influential and impactful organization it is today,” he said. “There were moments when it felt like we were fighting an uphill battle, but the unwavering support from one another and the community kept us moving forward. Today, I look back with immense pride and deep humility, knowing that together, we have built a legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope.
“Being a part of this incredible journey has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”