Gary Ellis Pirrung

Gary Ellis “Frog” Pirrung, 71, of Cortland lost his struggle with cancer and slipped away peacefully at home on Tuesday February 1, 2011 with his longtime partner and loving caregiver, Bev Mills, by his side. He was born November 14, 1939 in Sharon, PA, the son of Lorma Ellis Pirrung and the late Jacob Andrew Pirrung. He spent his younger years in PA, later moving to the Warren area, attending school and working at Thomas Steel, Heckett Engineering and May’s Towing. He retired from ODOT in 2000 after 22 years of service. He served in the Army and was a member of the Cortland Moose Lodge 1012. Although he was born in PA, he was an avid Browns fan, losing many a bet on them with his avid Steelers’ fan brother-in-law Hank. Many may remember him for his accomplished “Spoon Playing”. He was a very social person and could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He will be sadly missed, but happily remembered by family, friends, Bev and their three cats-Tippy, Casey and Baby. He leaves behind his daughter Tammy Cornell and her son Jake of Johnston, son Gary (Ronna) Pirrung and their son Lil Gary of Champion, sisters-Joan (Claude) Mook of N. Bloomfield and their children, Joy (Henry) Monty of Warren, and their children, brother Kenneth (Arlene) McCartney of Jasper, AL and their children , Partner Beverly Mills and her children, David, Amy (Cecil) Ford and three grandchildren, one great grandchild, special friends, Mike Shamrock and Nick Kubic. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Step-Father, Foster Parents, Step-Daughter and Ex-Wife, Judith. Beverly wishes to extend her gratitude to all of the personnel of the home health care companies, Autumn Hills and Hospice of the Valley for all of their compassionate help with Frog and to the family, friends and neighbors for their support and help. God Bless one and all. As per Gary’s wishes, cremation will take place. There are no calling hours or services at this time. A memorial and celebration of his life will take place sometime this summer. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Shafer-Winans Funeral Chapel in Cortland Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.shaferwinanschapel.com