April R Shirk

On Thursday, December 7, 2023, April R. Shirk, loving wife, mother, daughter, and sister went to be with the Lord at St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem at 39 years of age. She was the loving wife of Michael S. Shirk, who survives.

Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of Joan (Good) Swayze of Akron and Doug Willwerth and his wife Deborah of Lancaster.

April worked as a Probation and Parole Officer for Carbon County. She truly demonstrated the importance of human relations as exhibited by her selfless devotion to all she surrounded, especially those she supported through rehabilitation. April’s love was further displayed by her devotion to caring for animals and welcoming rescues as part of the family. Whether camping, hiking, or soaking in the sunshine at the shore, she always felt at home in the outdoors. To April, her family and friends were always at the forefront. When at home, she could be found in the kitchen pouring affection into her large meals for the entire family.

In addition to her husband, parents, and stepmother, she is survived by eight children and two grandchildren: Michael Shirk, Jr., Dustin (Emily) Shirk and their children Summer and Daisy, Carissa Shirk, Izaiah Smoker, Myles Smoker, Kira Smoker, London Smoker, and Emma Stauffer; and six siblings: Jennifer Carpenter, Brad Willwerth, Mark Willwerth, Andy Walker, Adam Walker and Allison Molnar.

A memorial service honoring her memory will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11am at Bethany Grace Fellowship, 400 Reading Rd, East Earl. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to thevalorfoundation.org or the Redondo foundation. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories may be posted at www.groffeckenroth.com.