ROTTERDAM:  Robert C. Shirkey, 66, died Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Albany Medical Center.  Bob was born in Niskayuna to the late Charles and Elizabeth Navin Shirkey. Bob was a graduate of Draper High School. He worked at the former St. Clare's Hospital and then at Ellis Hospital. Between both hospitals, he worked for over 40 years, retiring in 2024.

He is survived by four siblings; Barbara (David) Gestwick, Mary Sack, Kathleen (Richard) Rafalik and William (Jill) Shirkey, nieces and nephews; Michael, Christine, Susan, James, Janine, Dianne, Kate and Jenna, several great nieces and great nephews, all of whom loved him dearly.

Bob loved his home and enjoyed working in his yard. He was able to remember all of the family history in great detail. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially during the holidays and when they went camping. In her later years, he became his mother's steady caregiver and companion, showing kindness, devotion, and quiet strength every day.

There will be a calling hour, Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 until 11 a.m. at St. Gabriel's Church, 3040 Hamburg St., Rotterdam, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna, following the mass.

Condolence messages may be left at www.gleasonfuneralhomeinc.com