Zachary Jon Shirk, 33, of Cottage Grove, died unexpectedly Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at his home. He was born April 17, 1982 in Waterloo, Iowa to Jon and Jane (Kloberdanz) Shirk. He grew up in the Tomah, Wisc. area and graduated from Tomah Senior High School in 2001. After graduation, he enlisted in the Air National Guard and attended the University of Minnesota where he graduated with a degree in political science. He then went on to work at the VA as a pension and compensation specialist. Zachary was a compassionate and loving father to his little girl as he was her favorite playmate. He enjoyed finding new places and events to take her to and loved making special memories with her. He was also a Christian and believed in his salvation.
He is survived by his daughter, Avayla Shirk of the La Crosse area; parents, Jon and Jane; brother, Nathan of Cottage Grove; sister, Maggie Shirk of Red Wing; grandmother, Alice Shirk of Red Wing; three uncles, eight aunts and numerous cousins and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Harlan Shirk, maternal grandparents, George and Luella Kloberdanz.
Funeral services will be Saturday, 11 a.m., January 30, 2016 at the First Covenant Church with Reverend Marc Eix officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to create a trust fund for his daughter, Avayla. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com
Visitation
JAN
30.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (CST)
First Covenant Church
2302 Twin Bluff Rd
Red Wing, MN 55066
Service
JAN
30.
11:00 AM (CST)
First Covenant Church
2302 Twin Bluff Rd
Red Wing, MN 55066