Paul Michael Shirk

Paul Michael Shirk of Austin, Texas and St Louis, MO, passed away on June 22 of sudden heart failure. Michael was born on March 7, 1959 to Paul Raymond Shirk and Anne Detzer Shirk in Lawton, OK. After Michael graduated from Langley High School, in McLean, VA, he attended Randolph Macon College in Ashland, VA and American University in Washington, DC. In addition to his studies of Political Science, he loved his Lacrosse team and college Jazz Band. 1n 1988, he graduated from the New England College of Law in Boston, MA, quickly passed the bar exam, and had a stellar legal career following his passion of public service in Massachusetts. A highlight was an appointment as Special Attorney General for the State Board for Educator Certification. Moving to Austin, TX, in 1990, Michael continued his legal career working tirelessly in the area of labor, union and regulatory law where he represented both teachers and city service workers. He won numerous awards for his work and was often lauded for his sharp intellect, excellent courtroom skills and detailed legal research. Michael was an avid bicyclist who rode thousands of miles throughout Texas, often camping along the way. A music fan, he could be found enjoying live music and dancing in the many venues of Austin, TX. He also dedicated time to reading and volunteer work such as serving meals to unhoused persons and helping repair damaged homes after natural disasters. Michael is survived by his son, Dr. Paul Shirk of Austin, TX, Paul’s mother, Martha Scarborough, of Asheville, NC, his sister, Kristin Gomez, her family in VA, as well as extended family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at Austin Mennonite Church, 5801 Westminster Drive, Austin, TX 78723,on November 2, 2024 at 11:00 am with a potluck lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Austin Resource Center for the Homeless. Michael’s sharp wit, hearty laugh, steady stream of good jokes, passion for life and love of learning will be missed by his friends and family Aquamation Services provided by Hughes Funeral & Aquamation Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

Paul Michael Shirk

March 7, 1959 - June 26, 2024