Patricia “Patty” Ann Shirk, 73, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully last month on June 20, 2026, with her loving husband and two daughters by her side after a brave and determined fight against cancer.
Patty was born on August 5, 1952, in Galveston, Texas, the only child of the late George and Dorothy Stranahan. She was a third-generation employee of the Santa Fe Railroad, now BNSF Railway, beginning her career at the age of 17. After 43 years of dedicated service, she retired at the age of 60 to spend more time with her family, travel to favorite destinations like Disney World, gather with friends to play games, and enjoy winters at her beloved home in Florida, spending time in the sun and at the beach.
Patty was remarkably strong, tenacious, resourceful, intelligent, and quick-witted. Qualities she instilled in her daughters and earned the enduring admiration of her husband. She was exceptionally talented in countless creative art forms, including sewing, embroidery, quilting, ceramics, decorative wood painting, cross-stitch, knitting, and crocheting. During her retirement, she devoted much of her time creating one-of-a-kind custom purses and children’s bags, which she enjoyed selling at local craft shows alongside her dear sewing friends.
She was known for her extraordinary cooking and baking skills. Patty had a gift for making every occasion special through the food she prepared, including years of Sunday family dinners, creating specialty foods for holidays, especially the annual Christmas Eve appetizer dinner that remains a treasured family tradition, and planning unforgettable menus for years of trips, where her food and treats became an anticipated highlight. She also lovingly prepared all the food for both of her daughters’ weddings, including the cakes. Her three grandchildren especially loved her signature sugar cookies and coveted them so much that they would hide them from one another to avoid having to share.
Patty also had a knack for travel planning and instilled a love of adventure in her family. With an eye for a great deal and a talent for careful planning, she created countless family vacations and traditions that brought everyone together and made memories that will last a lifetime. In retirement, Patty and Steve enjoyed many years of visiting their favorite destinations and taking cruises, continuing a lifetime of adventures together.
As we reflect on her life, we realize that our beloved traditions, skills, and talents began with and are rooted in her. She dedicated many years to sharing her knowledge of timeless and increasingly rare art forms and skills with her family. Although her natural talents are irreplaceable, she leaves behind a legacy of creativity, craftsmanship, and inspiration. The memorable moments she created, the traditions she established, and the standards she set will continue to be cherished, talked about, and carried on by her family for generations to come.
Patty is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Steve Shirk; her two daughters, Cinnamon Ramer and Jen Barker; her three grandchildren, Hunter, Kalin, and Kyle; and her great-grandson, Owen.
Patty’s family will celebrate her life with a private gathering in Oregon at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Patty by creating something handmade, making or sharing a favorite recipe, traveling to your favorite place, playing games with friends, or simply spending time making memories with your family, as these were the things that brought her the greatest joy.
