Charles Elbert Shirk, 97, of Greensburg, formerly of Waldron, passed away on November 26, 2019 at Aspen Place. He was born on June 12, 1922 in Greensburg, the son of Samuel and Frances McLaughlin Shirk. Charles was a 1934 graduate of Greensburg High School. He was a WWII veteran of the United States Army Air Corps. He received his Farming Certificate from Purdue University. Charles married Patricia Sue Wagoner on November 25, 1965. He was a Farmer and owner of Lincoln Street Business Center and Shirks International. Charles was a member of the First Baptist Church and a Lifetime member of the Greensburg Optimist. He was the Past President of the Decatur County Fair Board and was instrumental to bring Luehrs’ Carnival Rides to Greensburg. Charles was a financial donor of multiple community organizations.
Survivors include: Daughter, Melissa Shirk Freeman; Friend, Steve Freeman; Grandchildren, Grant Freeman, Madison Freeman, Garret Freeman, Brian Karns, Kevin Karns, Ty Karns, Allen Karns, Patty (Ray) George, Robin (Brian) Paris; Sister-in-law, Doris Wagoner; Great Grandchildren, Emily Karns, Wyatt Charles Karns, Robert Antony Tuttle; Several Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins. Charles was preceded in death by his Parents; Wife; Step Daughters, Jeannette “Jeanne” Thibo Karns and Holly J. Thibo Esters; Brother-in-law Karl Wagoner; Grandson, Preston Karns; Step Great Granddaughter, Kaylee Ann Tuttle; Siblings, Stanton Shirk, George Shirk, Mary “Elizabeth” Shirk Bevan, and David Shirk.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at the Gilliland-Howe Funeral Home on Saturday, November 30, 2019 from 9:00 am until the time of the Funeral at 10:30 am. Rev. Cliff Bunch will be officiating. Burial will follow at the South Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Decatur County Community Foundation and the Indiana FFA. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com
