Richard S. Gwirtz

Richard S. Gwirtz, age 72, of 2708 Holtz Road, Shelby, died Monday, June 16, 2003 as the result of a truck accident on Old Bowman Road in Mansfield.

He was born September 10, 1930 in New Washington, Ohio the son of the late Joseph M. and Estella T. (Durnwald) Gwirtz. Mr. Gwirtz was an over-the-road truck driver for 25 years working for the W.L. Meade Company in Norwalk. Following his retirement he was the owner of Gwirtz Water Hauling. He was a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Shelby. Dick and his wife, Madeline, spent their winters in Florida the past several years, where he was an avid shell collector. He made shell figurines and lamps from his collection and found great pleasure in sharing them with his family. His other hobbies included deer hunting, fishing and playing cards.

Dick is survived by his wife of 52 years, Madeline (Romell) Gwirtz, whom he wed on June 16, 1951 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Milan; 3 sons: Rick Gwirtz of Shelby, Randy Gwirtz of Galion, and Lawrence Gwirtz of Columbus; 2 daughters and spouses: Lou Anne and Kevin Howell of Shelby; Jodi and Terry Volz of Ontario; 13 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; 2 brothers and 3 sisters-in-law: Robert and Georgia Gwirtz of Shelby, Donald and Shirley Gwirtz of Shelby, and Ruth Gwirtz of Crestline. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Norman Gwirtz.

Friends may call on Thursday, June 19, 2003 from 5-8 PM at the Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will be conducted on Friday at 10:30 AM with Father Nick Cunningham officiating. Burial will be in Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery. Memorial expressions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 10415 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106.