Jeffery Allen Buirge

Jeffery Allen Buirge, age 69, of McCandless Township, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025 surrounded by his cherished family. He was a loving husband, devoted father, loyal friend, and true source of joy. To know him was to experience kindness, humor, and an unwavering steadiness that made everyone feel supported.
Above all, Jeff's heart belonged to his family. He was the beloved husband of Barbara for 33 years; he fully believed that Barb hung the moon and was never afraid to tell people about his admiration for her. He was the treasured father of Olivia (Luke) Vorce, Abigail (Jake) Ballentine, and Samuel (Hannah) Buirge. The first to celebrate all the journeys and successes of his children, he was endlessly proud of them. Jeff was also the adoring grandfather of Conrad, and he so loved being his "Pop". Jeff leaves behind three brothers Dennis (Patty) Buirge, Timothy (Dianne) Buirge, and Jerry (Jennifer) Buirge. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Betty Buirge.
Jeff's circle of friends was larger than anyone could count because he loved people deeply and wholeheartedly. He showed up, he listened, and he lived loyally in a way that left an impression on everyone who knew him. He was known for making friends wherever he went, even the post-office and pharmacy. He carried a hospitable and interruptible heart, never too busy to pause, welcome, and care for others. Once you were Jeff's friend, you were his friend for life.
For 28 years, he was a loyal and dedicated employee with Mediterranean Shipping Company, the world's largest international shipping line. He loved his work, showing the same dependability and work ethic there that he carried into every area of his life. He was a natural for the shipping industry as he loved geography and learning about the various shipping ports around the world which contributed to his years of success.
Jeff was a 1975 graduate of North Allegheny High School and a 1979 graduate of Slippery Rock University. Athletic, driven, and passionate, he spent much of his life on the soccer field. He was inducted into the Slippery Rock University Ring of Honor for his soccer achievements, an honor that spoke to his dedication and skill. His days of playing extended into his 50s and even after they ended, the sport remained one of his greatest joys and he loved watching his children play and enjoy the "beautiful game." Saturday mornings were sacred - you could always find him watching a match, especially Crystal Palace, completely immersed in the game he loved so much.
Music was another constant in his life, and he used this to connect with others and bring them together. Jeff could often be found listening to Marshall Tucker Band while preparing dinner or "quizzing" his friends on their knowledge of a song when it came on. His family fondly remembers the many "air instruments" that Dad played as he jammed out to his favorite songs.
Jeff was the kind of person whose love was steady, generous, and unconditional. He was always ready with encouragement or simply the comfort of his presence. Putting a smile on someone's face came so naturally to him, and so many people have been blessed by this gift of his. His legacy lives on in the strength, warmth, and love he poured into his family and friends each day, and they will forever carry his light. This world has been made better by how hard he loved.
His family would like to thank the nurses and doctors of Unit 10G at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital for their care and compassion in the final days and weeks of Jeff's life.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Jeff is now in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with a new, healed body.
Friends will be received on Friday, December 12, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM and 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Simons Funeral Home, Inc., 7720 Perry Highway.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday at 11:00 AM at North Park Church, 600 Ingomar Road.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the ALS Association.
For more information, please visit www.simonsfuneralhome.com