Peter A. Cirjak

Peter Anthony Cirjak, born on September 14, 1930, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at the age of 93, following a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Shirley Cirjak (Riznikove); sons, Thomas Cirjak (Nancy) of Ravenna, Larry Cirjak (Marlise Fletter) of Burton; grandchildren, Marianne Cahill (Rob), Amy Cirjak, Michael Cirjak (Ashley), Elyse Miller (Aaron), and Bryse Cirjak as well as great grandchildren Jack Cahill, Tommy Cahill, Caroline Boston Smith, Owen Cirjak, Riley Cirjak, Logan Cirjak, and Abraham Miller. He also maintained close relationships with Mary Ellen Cirjak and Leita Cirjak in leading the way for a modern and loving family.

He is also survived by his brother, Joe Cirjak (Margaret), and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Mary as well as siblings Louie Cirjak, Thomas Cirjak, Ann Geuss, and Veronica Ruggiero and grandchild, Laura Cirjak.

Pete attended Annunciation Catholic School in Akron until 8th grade then began working at Murphy’s Lumber Yard at the age of 14. He also had other odd jobs such as delivering newspapers and working at Spada’s Grocery Store. He worked his way up to become a gifted and talented builder and later a meticulous woodworker who was extraordinarily creative with his craft. Later, Pete designed and shared his works with his family and friends so they all have special, custom, pieces in their homes. He met Shirley at the age of 18 when she would stop by Yank’s Confectionary on her way home from school to play pinball. They later married and built a beautiful life together.

With a profound love of doughnuts, he led an active lifestyle participating in square dancing and clogging clubs, woodworking clubs, playing cards, in dominos groups and never met a puzzle that was too challenging. He loved spending time outdoors mowing, splitting wood, tree trimming, gardening and had a passion for feeding the abundant wildlife around his home. The last years of his life were spent caring for his wife in their home where he was able to continue maintaining their beautiful home and property.

His quick wit and lighthearted pranks always kept everyone guessing but were no match for the truly caring and charismatic man he was. Pete was a clever man who sought out conversations with strangers and went through life whistling. He will be missed.

Visitation for friends and family will be held at Bissler and Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240, from 10:00-11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. A short graveside service at Homeland Cemetery in Rootstown will follow.

Services in the care of Bissler and Sons Funeral Home.