Tuesday, December 30th, 2014
Robert Shirk
Robert E. Shirk, 93, Wabash, died Dec. 28, 2014, at his home.
He was born Jan. 20, 1921, in Celina, to Willis A. and Miriam C. Fetters Shirk. On Sept. 7, 1946, he married Violet L. Powell, who died July 24, 1993.
Surviving are a granddaughter, Amanda (Charlie) Stucke, Celina; a grandson, Willis (Joanie) Shirk, Celina; five great-grandchildren, Kaden and Dane Stucke and Robert, Elijah and Isaac Shirk; three brothers-in-law, Carl Linn, Rockford, Jerry (Betty) Powell, Coldwater, and Bill (Shirley) Powell, Portland, Ind.; and two sisters-in-law, Hope Stein and Joanne (John) Jutte, all of Celina.
Also deceased are two sons, Dane K. Shirk, who died March 13, 1990, and Dennis R. Shirk, who died July 29, 1994; a sister, Phyllis Linn; and a daughter-in-law, Kathleen Shirk.
He had worked at Celina Auto Body and for many years owned and operated Shirk's Body Shop in Wabash, where he was active until he was in his 80s. He served with the Army Air Corps during World War II and was stationed in the Philippines and Japan. He was a member of Wabash United Church of Christ.
He thoroughly enjoyed family time. After his wife's passing, he traditionally prepared supper for his grandchildren five nights a week. He made his own noodles and cooked potatoes to feed the many stray cats who would appear at his door. He liked giving his great-grandchildren his spare change, which he called "Chicken Feed," and treating them to candy.
Services are 2 p.m. Wednesday at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home, Celina, the Rev. Jim Langham officiating. Burial will follow at Swamp College Cemetery, Celina.
Calling is noon-2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be given to the charity of the donor's choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.
