Ethan Shirk

CPT. Ethan Andrew Shirk, 55, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

Born in Reading to F. Alan and Pamela A. (Maser) Shirk, Ethan was a very generous and loving son, brother, uncle, and friend.

After graduating from Wyomissing High School in 1989, he followed in his grandfather's footsteps and enlisted in the US Navy. He served his nation honorably during the Gulf War aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. After his honorable discharge, he explored different career paths. He graduated from Penn State University Main Campus in 1995 with a degree in communications; later, he graduated from Pierce College in 2013 with a degree in Business Administration, and in 2017 with a degree in Science.

In 2008, he joined the National Guard, and in 2010 he completed Officers' Candidate School. In 2023, he was called to a tour of duty in Kuwait. During his military career, he was recognized, among other achievements, with three Army Commendation Medals; two Army Achievement Medals; five Army Reserve Component Medals; and two National Defense Service Medals.

Highly skilled and expertly trained in information technology, he also was a federal employee at Ft. Indiantown Gap where he served as a Data System Engineer.

Ethan was an avid fan of Penn State football. His encyclopedic knowledge of cinema and history fueled his tremendous sense of humor. During his early years, he was a boy scout and an avid skier. He was also a member of the racing team at the Velodrome of Trexlertown.

Left to cherish Ethan's memory are his loving parents, Alan and Pam; his brother, Michael A. Shirk, husband of Pilar Jasso-Shirk, of Coatesville; niece, Emily Isabelle Shirk; and many friends and family He was predeceased by his grandparents, Franklin A. and Vivian E. (Shelly) Shirk and Frank J. and Marie A. (Angstadt) Maser.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/, or by mail to: PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517.

A viewing (8.a.m.) followed by the Funeral Service (9 a.m.) will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at FTIG Post Chapel, Building 0-8 Wiley Rd, Annville PA 17003, with interment to follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Visitation and viewing will take place in the FTIG Post Chapel until the start of the service. Attendees will need to check in with base security; please allow sufficient time for check in. 

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc, is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.