PENDLETON
With profound sadness we announce the passing of Joseph Luke Shirley, 45, of Pendleton; on May 29, 2020. Luke passed away peacefully in Denver, Colorado. The way he died is just like he lived: he wrote his own rules, he fought authority, he paved his own way, and was always on “Luke Time”.
Luke knew no boundaries. He was paralyzed in 1995, but that truly is where his life began. He received his Bachelor degree in Physical Fitness Education from Ball State University, obtained his SCUBA certification and had many dives along the most beautiful reefs in the world, sailed along the Florida Keys with his dear friend Capt. Nick, traveled through Thailand, packed up and drove to California to begin his career by training some well-known stars, he would spend his nights at the Viper Room with Johnny Depp, Vern Troyer, Angus Mitchell, Nicole Ritchie to name a few. He was artistically gifted, not only in drawing but in writing poetry. Luke loved his family and friends beyond measure. So often, miles and time created a physical barrier but not emotionally. He lived life to the fullest and never questioned a decision he made because they always lead him down a path of adventure.
Luke was preceded in death by his mother who was also his best friend, Patricia J. Shirley, doting grandmother, he fondly referred to as FaFa, Betty F. Shirley, eccentric grandfather, Dr. Joseph Shirley and eldest Cousin Michael Hamilton.
He is survived by his devoted father and bonus mother, Dr. Phillip R. Shirley and Gloria of Pendleton; his loving, yet pestering younger sister, Dinah Shirley-Wright of Pendleton; his favorite and only nephew Austin Robertson (McKayla Mulherin) of Pendleton; his beloved and only niece Anna Robertson of Pendleton; his Aunt Jo Ann and Uncle Big Bob Hilbish of Reston, Viginia; Aunt Joey and Uncle Al Hamilton of Stamford, Connecticut; cousins Jeanette, Audrey, David, Ted and many friends he loved so dearly.
A celebration of Luke’s life will be held at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, 211 E. State St., Pendleton on Thursday, June 11, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with Pastor Claude Creel officiating.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a charitable contribution to an organization of your choosing.
Online condolences available at www.stpierrefamilyfuneral.com
