Todd Michael Shimko
AKRON - Todd Michael Shimko, age 56, of Akron, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.
Todd was born on July 13, 1967 in Akron, to Marilyn J. (nee Nervo) Shimko, with whom he lived, and the late James Michael Shimko.
Todd was active in Scouting and earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout.
After graduating from Ellet High School in 1985, Todd enlisted in the U.S. Army. Todd was a decorated U.S. Army soldier serving 10 years in active duty and reserves and was decorated with the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal and various awards and commendations.
After military service, he remained in Akron, Ohio and began his new career in Information Technology.
He worked at various employers for the next 20+ years. When he wasn’t working, Todd had a deep passion for animals and animal rescue philanthropy. Saving four legged Angels was always his calling. As he always said, “Every one of them deserves a home and to be loved.”
His passion for aviation always endured and he could always be found looking to the blue skies reminiscing. He always enjoyed a good round of golf, hiking and especially walking in the evening to watch the sunsets.
Todd was preceded in death by his father on March 24, 2021; his brother, James S. on October 24, 2022; and his four legged children, Patches, Aria and Samantha.
In addition to his mother, other survivors include his four legged children, Scootie, Bella, and Tiger; his nieces, nephews and friends.
Family and friends may visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 North Canton Road, Akron, Ohio 44305 on Sunday, August 6, 2023 from 1:00- 4:00 PM.
There will be a Memorial Mass will be at 10:30 AM at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2580 Berne Avenue, Akron on Monday, August 7, 2023, where Father Mike Williamson will celebrate Todd’s life.
Burial of his cremated remains will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Akron, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Summit County Humane Society for Animals, One of A Kind Pet Shelter Sanctuary and St. Matthew Parish in Todd’s memory.
High Flight
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings.
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds, and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of wheeled and soared and swung.
High in the sunlit silence. Hovering there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark nor ever eagle flew.
And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod
The high un-trespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.