Shirley Mae Sarka

CONTINENTAL – Shirley Mae Sarka, 85 of Continental died 4:20 p.m. Friday, August 16, 2024 at the Meadows of Kalida.  She was born November 25, 1938, in Leipsic to the late Charles and Blanche (Schmidt) Winkle.  On October 8, 1960, she married Alfred Sarka, who preceded her in death on February 18, 2020.

She is survived by a son:  Scott (Kelly) Sarka of Continental; 2 granddaughters:  Brianna (Brett DeSote) Sarka and Christina (Zach) Brobst; 3 great-grandchildren:  Paisley, Penelope and Baby Girl Brobst, arriving in November; a sister:  Donna Bracken of Van Wert; 2 nephews and a niece.

Shirley is preceded in death by 4 sisters-in-law:  Mildred Sarka, Pauline Sarka, Inez Sarka and Bertie Sarka; 2 brothers-in-law:  Earl Sarka and Larry Bracken; and 2 nephews:  Dave and Daniel Sarka.

Shirley retired from the Putnam County ESC where she had been an intervention specialist aide.  She was a very active member of Christ United Methodist Church, Continental and a member of the Progress thru Parenthood CCL.  Shirley was a part of a very special group of ladies that met each Friday at the Main Street Boutique for coffee and conversation.

Shirley was rarely seen without a smile on her face.  She was the most loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and truly looked forward to and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Shirley's funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at Christ United Methodist Church, Continental with Pastors Monica Kleman and Chuck Schmunk officiating.  Burial will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Continental.  Visitation will be Monday from 2 to 8 p.m. at the HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Continental and again for 1 hour prior to the service at the church..