Eric Harlow Shirk

Eric Harlow Shirk of Exeter California entered the presence of the Lord on May 12, 2025. He was a 61 year old beloved husband, father, papa and friend who will be greatly missed. Born on August 31st, 1963, in San Jose California to Barbara Whitney and Wally (Wallace) Shirk. Eric made his home in the Central Valley for the last 55 years. Most recently, he spent the last 8 years creating his forever home with his wife, Terri, on Grace Ranch also known as 'Their little slice of heaven'. Eric's loving spirit is carried on by his wife Terri Shirk; Eric's two daughters Meghan Merrill and Devon Enos (Cody); Erics bonus daughters Chelsea Leyendekker (Everet), Baylie Ochoa (Jose), and Ashlea Underwood; along with grandchildren Kaysen Enos, Elliott Leyendekker, Wyatt Merrill, Levi Ochoa, Rhett Leyendekker, Payton Enos, Weston Merrill, Jacob Ochoa, Raegan Enos, Reid Leyendekker, Warren Merrill, and Charlee Leyendekker; beloved dogs Hana, Anabel, and Rip. Preceding him in peace were his parents, Wallace Dean Shirk (Father), Barbara June Whitney (Mother), and Leonard Walter Whitney (Stepfather); Beloved dogs Max, Grace and Mia. Throughout Eric's life he enjoyed many different activities. From water skiing on the lake, riding dirt bikes around Mojave desert, to flying his Cessna 182 across California he was always up for an adventure. In 1990 Eric fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer, starting his career volunteering as a level 1 reserved for the Farmersville police department, later transitioning to his dream position at Tulare Police Department. He spent 25 years dedicated to serving his community. Alongside his step father, Leonard Whitney, he learned and helped build the chain of Food 4 Less stores within the Central Valley. This ignited his passion for entrepreneurship which he carried through many business endeavors. Although he was a passionate entrepreneur, his love for his family far exceeded any business venture. Eric lived for his family. He was an extraordinary man who devoted every moment of his life to the happiness and well-being of his family. No sacrifice was too great for him, and he often put their needs far above his own without a second thought. His quiet strength, unwavering love, and tireless efforts became the foundation on which his family thrived. One of Eric's favorite titles was 'Papa Eric'. Eric and Terri were blessed with 12 grandchildren. Papa adored his grandkids with all his heart. You would often find him driving his mule around the ranch with all 12 grandchildren in tow. He cherished every laugh, hug, and moment spent together. His love for his daughters knew no bounds. He was known by all as the best dad- one of a kind- whose love, wisdom, and constant support shaped his daughters' lives in the most profound ways. Eric was the ultimate girl dad, from shopping sprees to daddy daughter dates he made sure his girls knew how special and treasured they are. Eric was equally a phenomenal husband. He was not just a husband but a best friend. He was the one constant through every storm and every joy. As Terri's biggest supporter he believed in her dreams. Together, they were unstoppable, standing side by side against whatever life threw their way because finding your one true love feels like coming home to a place you never knew you were missing- suddenly, everything makes sense, and your heart finally rests. Eric was a man whose life was deeply rooted in his steady faith and profound love for the lord. He was a devout follower of Jesus Christ, whose faith was the cornerstone of his life. Eric lived out his beliefs through acts of kindness and service to others, always eager to share the love of christ with those around him, His love for the Lord was evident in his kindness, compassion, and the way he approached life's challenges, leaving a legacy of faith that will continue to inspire his family and all who knew him. Eric created a positive, fun and inspiring environment everywhere he went. To know him is to love him. To be in his presence was an honor. He effortlessly touched so many lives through his generosity. Eric's celebration of life will be held 10:00 AM Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Eric Harlow Shirk

August 31, 1963 - May 12, 2025