Obituary for Terry Richard Shirk

Terry Richard Shirk, age 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio, at The Ohio State University Medical Center Inpatient Hospice Unit. 

Terry was born on July 20, 1949, in Kenton, Ohio, to the late Joyce Carpenter. 

He graduated from Kenton Senior High School in 1967 and went on to proudly serve his country as a United States Marine during the Vietnam War, serving from 1967 to 1971. 

On December 30, 1968, he married Margaret Marie Schulze, the mother of his children, who preceded him in death. On July 8, 1998, he married Kay (Price) Winebrenner who survives in Ridgeway. 

Terry is also survived by his children, Shane (Cheryle) Shirk, and Jamie Shirk; stepson, Graham Price; his beloved granddaughters, Maggie Deel and Ryann Deel; and his siblings, Penny (Jerry) Ropp, Susan Munday, Lisa Burleson, Jackie (Randy) Rader, and Chip (Terri) Shirk.

Terry was a hardworking and determined man who spent his career as a truck driver before returning to college to become an accountant. After his first wife’s death, Terry returned to the road as a long-haul trucker. In retirement, he embraced a quieter life in the country, where he found great joy raising Texas Longhorn Cattle, a passion he continued until his passing. 

A man of few words, Terry showed his love through his actions. He cared deeply for his family and had a special place in his heart for animals. He cherished time spent with loved ones. He enjoyed reading and traveling, especially trips to Las Vegas and visits with his Utah family. Terry even spent a few years exploring oil painting. 

Of all the roles he held in life, Terry’s greatest joy was being “Papa” to Maggie and Ryann. As their devoted “Papa”, he cared for them through much of their childhood, creating a bond and memories that will be treasured forever. 

Funeral services for Terry, will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton with Rev. Randall Forest officiating. Burial with military rites will follow at Grove Cemetery. Friends and family may visit 2 hours prior to services at the funeral home. 

Online condolences may be expressed at pricefh.net.

Terry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.