Ralph L. Shirkey, age 92, of Delta, passed away at his daughter’s home in Wauseon Sunday morning, February 18, 2018. He was born in Montpelier, Ohio on November 27, 1925 to the late Clayton Shirkey and Mable (Horne) Shirkey; moving to Delta when he was an infant.
He attended Delta High School and later served in the Merchant Marines during WWII. After a short time home he was drafted into the Army and served during the Korean War. Ralph was a 60 year member of the Cement Finishers Local 886. On November 27, 1970 he married Margaret (Oberla) Shirkey and she survives. Together they spent many years dancing and traveling with their camper. Ralph also enjoyed gardening and caring for his home.
He is survived by his daughters, Teresa (Ricardo) Arredondo and Lenella (Darrell) Duckett; step-daughter, Carol Goodridge; brothers, Lowell and Paul Shirkey and sister, Donna Tucker; 9 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Ralph was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie Brocus; sister, Dorothy Shirkey; brothers, Nobel and Stanley Shirkey; step-son, Daniel Nichols and sister-in-law, Jary Snyder. In celebrating Ralph’s life; friends may visit for time of fellowship from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at Winchester’s Restaurant, 7950 St Hwy 109 in Delta. Interment will be at Greenlawn Cemetery in Delta.
Arrangements are entrusted with Barnes Funeral Chapel, 5825 St. Hwy. 109 in Delta. Those wishing a show of sympathy may make a memorial contribution to the Delta Police Department in Ralph’s memory. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.barnesfuneralchapel.com.