Wesley L. "Wes" Shirley, 79, passed away Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Wes was born February 26, 1945 in Greensburg, PA. He was the youngest son of the late Albert and Marie Shirley. He graduated from Midview High School in 1963. Following high school, he attended The Ohio State University for a short time, and later obtained a degree from Oberlin Business School. In 1966, he was drafted into the United States Army, and proudly served his country, stationed in Fort Knox, KY, and later oversees in Germany. Upon his return from Germany, he worked for a few companies, utilizing his business degree, and later his entrepreneurial spirit would lead him to start his own business, as founder of North Coast Rivet. In his retirement, he enjoyed working as a crossing guard for Elyria City Schools. He was a member of Washington Avenue Christian Church in Elyria, the Elyria Jaycees, and various yacht clubs and country clubs throughout the years. He met the love of his life, Katherine "Kathy" Shoop in 1965, and they were happily married 57 years. They had two sons, Ty and Troy, who were his greatest joy in life. Wes lived life to the fullest, and enjoyed all that life had to offer. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was an avid boater for many years, and loved being on the water. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes, and he would enjoy an annual fishing trip to Canada with his close fishing buddies every year. He traveled with his wife and children to many destinations. Wes loved being outdoors, and in his retirement years enjoyed doing yard work, and having campfires with his wife. Wes is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy, his son Ty (Heather), his son Troy (Stephanie), and his grandkids, Gabrielle, Summer, Lincoln and Isabelle. He is also survived by his older brother, Dan (Ruth) Shirley, who reside in Butler, PA. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Ames Family Hospice House (Hospice of the Western Reserve) for their compassion and care. Visitation will be held Friday September 13, 2024 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. with a memorial service directly following at 2:00 p.m. at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria, Ohio. A luncheon will follow at the Washington Avenue Christian Church 301 Washington Avenue, Elyria. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in memory be made to Friendship APL 8303 Murray Ridge Rd. Elyria, OH. 44035. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com