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BORN
1934
DIED
2022
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Russell SHIRK Obituary
Russell Shirk Jr., age 88 of Springfield, passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at his home with family by his side. He was born the son of Russell and Thelma (Erlewine) Shirk on February 5, 1934, in Springfield. Russell is preceded in death by his parents, brother Bob Shirk and sister Pat
Sprinkle. Russell is survived by his wife Avie, of 66 years, and
beloved children, Mark (Ellyn) Shirk of Springfield, Scott (Mindy) Shirk of St. Paris and Kristi (Doug) Porter of Beavercreek; grandchildren Natalie (Matt) Bushey, Jackie
(Tyler) Ford, Chelsea (Matt) Weber, Craig (Tara) Shirk, Audrey (Shawn) Kessel, Gunner Shirk, Kelsey Porter, Grant Porter and Grace Porter; and great-grandchildren Lily, Cooper, Lydia, Max, Sammy, Josie, Chloe, Alari and Caulin.
Russell retired from Navistar in 1999 with 33 years of service, a Journeyman Electrician and a member of IBEW 669 and UAW 402. He taught Electrical Engineering at Clark State, Adult
Education at JVS, and at the Joint Apprenticeship Training Center. Russell enjoyed spending time with family, reading and collecting books of all genres and studying a variety of topics. He looked forward to breakfast every Monday morning with his former coworkers. Russell saw only the good in all he met, and never had a mean word to say. He was adored by his family, had a strong work ethic and was a life-long learner, instilling these values in his children and grandchildren.
Visitation is Saturday, May 21 at North Hampton Community Church from 10AM-12PM. A celebration of life service will be held at 12PM with Pastor Jim Welch officiating. Light refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MTM-CNM Family Connection (www.MTM-CNM.org) in honor of Cooper. RICHARDS, RAFF & DUNBAR MEMORIAL HOME has been entrusted with the final arrangements. Expression of sympathy my be made at
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Russell SHIRK
Sponsored by Richards, Raff & Dunbar Memorial Home.
Sharon Greene
May 9, 2025
It has been 3 years since you left us. I will always remember you for being a wonderful uncle. You taught me something I remember to this day.
Robin Sills and family.
May 20, 2022
I enjoyed my life visit with my Uncle Jr. We had a good talk and enjoyed each others company. I thank him for being the special person he was. I will miss his kind hearted personality. In honor of Cooper and in memory of Uncle Jr we donated to the link provided instead of buying flowers. Love you all.
Ernest & Ramona Henry
May 20, 2022
Mark & Ellen,
To the entire family, sincere prayers for strength & peace.
Bill Burns
May 17, 2022
So sorry to hear about Russel. Worked with Russ and what a great person. Prayers go out to his family. RIP Russell. Great knowing you and working with you. God Bless!
Timothy & Rosalie Allen
May 16, 2022
Avie, Scott, Mark & Kristi:
Like you, I cannot imagine a world without the joyful, caring, fun loving Russell Shirk in it. He's been around my whole life and like another uncle to me. We know that the Lord will comfort you during these days ahead and that your family will continue to experience his life in the wonderful memories he has left us all. Love to each of you!!!!
Frank & Anita Neff
May 15, 2022
Russell and Avie have been wonderful members of our family. We will miss Russell's fun-loving personality, kindness and caring in every way.
Sharon Greene
May 15, 2022
My heart goes out to my Aunt Avie and the entire Shirk family. I loved my Uncle Junior and have many fond memories of him. He will be missed. Love to all.
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Richards, Raff & Dunbar Memorial Home838 East High Street, Springfield, OH 45505
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