Obituary of Gary Ryan Shirk

Gary Ryan Shirk, 78, of Santa Cruz, California, passed away on July 27, 2014. He was the oldest son of the former Homer and Esther Shirk of Prunedale, California. Because of a swimming accident during his high school years, Gary became a paraplegic. He was able to finish high school and graduated from Salinas High in 1954. He graduated from Hartnell College and attended San Jose State University. He loved all sports and even though he was unable to participate, he was an avid fan, especially of football and baseball. He was a childhood collector of stamps and coins, sports magazines and sports cards. He loved photography and was able to manage a camera, taking beautiful photos for many events. Gary is survived by his brothers, Donald (Joann) of San Diego, CA, Richard (Dianna) of Prunedale, CA, Kenneth of Kailua Kona, HI and David of Modesto. There will be a celebration of life gathering for Gary on Saturday, September 6th, 2014 at the Shirk Residence, 17551 Pond-Derosa Lane, Prunedale, CA.