Kirk Schuring, age 72, of Canton passed away on November 22, 2024, in his home surrounded by his family.

A native son of Stark County, Senator Schuring took great pride in serving his home county for more than three decades in the Ohio General Assembly.

Senator Schuring was well liked in both the Senate and House chambers by colleagues representing both sides of the aisle. He sponsored dozens of bills on a wide variety of issues including economic policy, sports gaming, and healthcare, that eventually became law and made a difference for Ohio families.

Even through his recent illness he worked the phone from his hospital bed, talking to colleagues about pending legislation.

Kirk Schuring believed in the work, and he believed in the people he served.

Holding multiple leadership positions during his time in the General Assembly, including Senate President Pro Tempore, he worked tirelessly to provide the freedom for communities to create their own Joint Economic Development Districts, which helped create additional job opportunities that might not otherwise be available.

He loved a good story and was very influential in working to make Ohio a destination for Hollywood.

His work to expand the Film Tax Credit was critical in keeping Hollywood's interest in Ohio for major films and TV series.

Named legislator of the year numerous times by a long list of organizations, Senator Schuring took great pride in being a quiet yet highly effective negotiator and advocate for his hometown, his state, and for people who just needed someone to listen.

Kirk graduated from Perry High School in Stark County and attended Kent State University.

He worked for the family business and eventually became President of the Schuring Agency, an insurance company.

Kirk was born to serve. He was President of the Stark County Young Republicans. He was proud to have been a member of the Canton Jaycees and served as their president. He also served as President of the Canton Urban League. He loved the Canton Club and served as its president.

He could've gone anywhere but stayed in the place he loved, and that was forever his Ohio home.

Senator Schuring is preceded in death by his parents James A. Schuring and D. Margaret (Felton) Schuring and father-in-law William Newkirk, mother-in-law Joan (Riley) Newkirk, sister-in-law Candy Newkirk.

Senator Schuring is survived by his loving wife Darlene (Newkirk), his son J. Derrick, daughter-in-law Allison (McDaniel), daughter Kristin, and six grandchildren whom he loved dearly: Preston, Parker, Quinn, Owen, Everett, and Lucy. His sister Diane (Schuring) McAndrew, brother-in-law Michael McAndrew, brother and sister-in-law David and Kathy Newkirk, brother-in-law Sam Bellino, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Marti Newkirk and so many other family and friends.

Calling hours will be held on December 4, 2024, from 2 – 7 PM at Kent State Stark Campus Conference Center, 6000 Frank Ave NW, North Canton, OH.

Funeral services will be held December 5, 2024, at 11 AM at The Old Stone Chapel with Pastor Brian Hanson officiating, 415 Tuscarawas St W, Canton, OH 44702.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Aultman Hospital, Timken Cancer Center, Aultman Hospice, Absolute Home Health, and Altercare at Nobles Pond. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to the Timken Cancer Center.