Final Salute

John Edward Shirmer, 63, of New Cumberland, PA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Gardens of Gettysburg. Born in Mechanicsburg on April 3, 1961, he was the son of the late Jack and Virginia (Conches) Shirmer. He was the devoted husband of Georgette “Georgie” (Rodgers) Shirmer, with whom he shared 29 wonderful years of love and companionship.

A graduate of Red Land High School, John built a career as a Bridge Carpenter, working with skill and dedication in a profession that required both precision and hard work. He took pride in his craft and the structures he helped build, leaving a lasting mark through his work.

John was an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in hunting and fishing, where he could connect with nature and enjoy the peace it provided. He also had a love for games of skill and chance, often spending time at the casino and playing cards with friends and family. A die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, John never missed a chance to cheer on his team, always passionate about the game. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed scale modeling, a hobby that reflected his patience, creativity, and attention to detail.

In addition to his wife Georgie, he leaves behind his son, Joshua Winkowski and his wife Kim; his daughter, Jeannette Shupp and her husband Todd; his 4 grandchildren, Dylan, Avery, Jackson, and Vega; his 3 sisters, Rosanne Ayala and her husband Allen, Denise Shirmer and husband Dewayne, and Lisa Polczynski and her husband James; his 1 brother, Steve Shirmer and his wife, Erin; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial with full military honors at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery will be at a later date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can me made to the Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S Lincoln Ave, Lebanon, PA 17042.