Eugene "Gene" Charles Shirk

Craftsman & Companion

Hebron - Eugene Charles Shirk, 85, has passed on Tuesday, Jan 6 2026, in Salisbury surrounded by love and the family he had created.

Gene was born Dec 17, 1940 in Princess Anne to Gerald & Mary Lois Shirk. Accompanied by his older brother, Donald Shirk and his younger sister Marianna Wehnes.

Moving in with his grandparents, Elmer & Bertha Brown at an early age. Gene helped maintain the family dairy farm. This is where his love of hard work and agriculture began.

In 1959, Gene graduated from Washington High School. Shortly after, he began his 38 year long career at Delmarva Power and Light as a Lineman. He recalls the excitement of storm work while doing Trouble and Service.

Gene married Ella Mae Shirk on June 25, 1960. Nothing could come between them, and he made sure of that. A knight in denim armor is how the story went. They shared 61 years of love that blossomed into a son, David Shirk, and a daughter, Cheryl Amthor. He then became a "Poppop" to Dylan, Gatlin, Jessica, Jordan, & Christian.

If he wasn't in his garden, he would be in the garage, and if not there, then check the stained glass shop. Gene was a man of craft. From wood, to dirt, to metal then even tech; there wasn't a trade he didn't respect.

Quiet until curious, Gene was one to make a friend. A great listener, chuckler, and caregiver to anyone he came across. He'd make sure to greet you with a smile and that you left with one too.

He is survived by his siblings, Donald & Marianna, children, David & Cheryl, grandkids, Dylan, Gatlin, Jessica, Jordan, & Christian, great grandkids, Tatum, Hallie, Daisy & Jackson, and many friends.

Eugene fought cancer with incredible strength. The world feels quieter and dimmer without his presence, a testament to the light and love he carried.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Jan 12, 2026 at 1pm with a visitation one hour prior to the service at  Hinman Funeral Home in Princess Anne. Interment will follow in Beechwood Cemetery.

Live streaming at Hinman Funeral Home on YouTube.com (tinyurl.com/eugeneshirk).

In lieu of flowers, Gene requests donations be made to the Make-A-Wish foundation.