Kevin J Shortelle's Obituary
Kevin J. Shortelle, age 67 of Gainesville, FL, passed away on February 11th, 2023, after a brief battle with cancer. Born on May 7th, 1955 and raised in Wallingford, CT, he graduated from Xavier High School in Middletown, CT and received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame. He and his wife, Ann, moved to Gainesville in 1988.
Kevin was the son of the late James and Louise Shortelle of Wallingford CT. He is survived by his wife, Ann, two daughters, Jennifer Shortelle and Janet Zarling, son-in-law Joel Zarling, granddaughters Ella and Hazel Zarling, his brother and sister-in-law Terry and Mary Shortelle, and his niece Amy Bevins of Wallingford, CT.
Kevin dedicated his life to his family, philanthropy, and his faith. He was an active member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church where he was a lector and member of the parish’s Knights of Columbus council. He supported many charities, primarily those focused on cancer research. He was a long-time volunteer with the American Cancer Society, where he was past-president of the local unit’s Board of Directors as well as serving on the Board of Directors of the Florida Division. He was a staunch advocate for cancer-related health care legislation both at the State and Federal levels. Shortly before his death, he was presented with a lifetime achievement award for his works with the American Cancer Society. Kevin was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who provided unwavering love and support for his family. He was selfless in every facet of his life, and this was evident based on the lifelong relationships he developed during his various endeavors.
Kevin always embraced the lessons learned from his depression-era parents and valued his Catholic education from first grade through graduate school. He possessed an unquenchable thirst for learning and loved a spirited political debate. He enjoyed discussions involving sports, history, politics, and the social issues of our times. He will be remembered by his family and closest friends for his unconditional love and kindness.
A Funeral Mass will take place at Queen of Peace Catholic Community, 10900 SW 24th Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32607, on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 10:00 am with Fr. Alberto Esposito. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kevin’s name to the American Cancer Society: https://secure.acsevents.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app30008a?team_id=2646968&fr_id=104080&pg=team&NONCE_TOKEN=F498C2E1012B10653E444F9824C092E3
What’s your fondest memory of Kevin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kevin?
Share a story where Kevin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kevin you’ll never forget.
How did Kevin make you smile?