Lafayette Mourns Loss of Longtime Benefactor

 is mourning the loss of one of its longtime benefactors.

Fred Kirby II, a 1942 graduated of the school, died earlier this week, according to a message on the college website. He was 91.

“Our gratitude to Fred Kirby for a lifetime of service and generosity to the college is boundless," college President Daniel Weiss said. "He was a remarkable person in many ways. I will remember with special appreciation the years in which I had the privilege to work with him."

Kirby led his family's foundation for more than 40 years. It was responsible for -- among other things -- the Kirby House student residence, Allan P. Kirby Sports Center, and the recent renovation of Fisher Stadium.

According to his obituary, Kirby was a veteran of World War II, and played on Lafayette's undefeated football team. He lived in New Vernon, NJ. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12 at the Grace Episcopal Church in Madison, NJ.