Richard Andrew Shirvis' Obituary
It is with unfathomable sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Andrew Shirvis, 57, of Largo FL on August 11, 2024.
Richard is preceded in death by his father, Raymond A. Shirvis, I, his mother. Mary Hunt Shirvis, his brother, Raymond “Sonny” A. Shirvis, II, and his brother Steven Hunt Shirvis.
He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Etsuko, his devoted daughter Leilani, his sister Barbara Shirvis, (Stephen), his nephews Benjamin and Zachary, his father-in-law Shigenobu Sora, brother in law Yoshinari Sora, (Chikako), sisters-in-law Brenda Shirvis Chitty and Adline Miller, and his faithful dog, Oreo.
An accomplished musician from a very young age, Ric played several instruments in a wide variety of forums. In his twenties, Ric traveled as a drummer through Europe and the Greek islands, before settling back in his hometown of Largo and earning an Associate of Arts degree from St. Petersburg College, where he met his future wife. A well-rounded professional, Ric joined the local favorite band Bohemian Swingers in the 1990s. Beyond that, Ric could be found playing guitar and/or drums with various bands over the decades. Once he started his own company, Panakolada (2004), Ric became well known for his skilled playing of steel drums in such varied settings as sport franchises (Buccaneers, Phillies, Lightning), festivals, corporate events, hundreds of beach weddings, and for 20 years played poolside at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort.
Besides his encyclopedic knowledge of music, Ric was a skilled cook and foodie, as well as a committed and attentive gardener. Ric and his family traveled to Japan many times to bond with family and experience its rich culture.
Ric, our husband, father, brother and friend, lived life as the consummate artist. Kind and generous to his core, Ric’s first thought was always for others’ well-being. A patient husband and proud and present father, Ric reveled in his family’s love. Ric Shirvis spent his life creating and adding beauty to this world.
A Celebration of Life is planned for November 1, 2024.
The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Ric's name.
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