Derek R. 'Beef' Schirer
Derek R. "Beef" Schirer, 26, died Thursday (Dec.
10, 2009) in Newton. He was born on March 15, 1983, in Newton to Kyle Van
Schirer and Deanna Rose West. He was married to Hannah Barnes Schirer. She survives.
Derek served his country in the U.S. Army, where he was given an honorable
discharge. He was a graduate of Halstead High School and Pittsburg State
University, where he majored in psychology and biology. Derek enjoyed bowling
and played on a league team. He is survived by his wife Hannah of Newton;
father Kyle Van Schirer of Newton; mother Deanna R. Schirer of Galena; brother
Tyler Van Schirer of Newton; and companion Kristy Hall of Newton.
He also is survived by a host of relatives including
paternal grandfather Keith Schirer of Newton; paternal grandmother Wilma Hybsha
of Newton; maternal grandmother Marge West of Halstead; and many aunts, uncles,
cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Joshua Brittain,
and a cousin, Jennifer West.
Public visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at
Petersen Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday
at Petersen Funeral Home with Pastor David Schirer of Westside Baptist Church
in Wichita presiding. The family will greet friends following the service.
A graveside committal service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday
at Claney Cemetery in rural Marion County.
Memorials may be left with the Derek Schirer memorial fund
in care of Petersen Funeral Home.