Samuel L. Shorts

Samuel L. Shorts, 87, of Meadville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Wesbury.

Samuel was born in Nickleville, on June 25, 1938, a son of the late Ralph and Ethel (Shreffler) Shorts.

On July 11, 1964, Sam married Marilyn J. Vanderhoff; she survives.

He attended First Baptist Church in Centerville.

Samuel attended Titusville High School. In 1984 he retired from Meadville Forging. His career there began in 1962 as a driver and he quickly worked his way into the shop. He was a long time member of Meadville Masonic Lodge #408, West Mead #2 Volunteer Fire Dept., Meadville Elks BPOE #219 and VFW Post #2006.  An avid outdoors man, Samuel was a very successful rifle hunter, having bagged countless deer and four black bears. He also enjoyed muzzle loading during doe season. Along with his life long friend, Tim Powell, Samuel took several trips out West for elk and big game hunting. He enjoyed being outdoors cutting or splitting wood, and he had a long career of snowmobile riding. He had a deep passion for drag racing and building engines, not only for himself, but also for many others. Samuel's drag racing pride and joy was his 1962 Ford Galaxy, that he raced well into his mid 80's. He was unstoppable and will be sadly missed.

In addition to his wife, Marilyn, of 61 years, Samuel is survived by three sisters Shirley Ross (Gary) of Utica, Helen Jordan (Norris) of Knox, Nancy Young (David) of Hannasville; a sister in law Carol Shorts of El Paso, TX; many nieces and nephews whom he loved as his own.

In addition to his parents, Samuel was preceded in death by a brother Gene Shorts.

Family and friends are invited to call from 1-4 PM on Monday, March 23, 2026, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where a Masonic Service will take place at 3:50 PM, followed by the Funeral Service at 4 PM.

Samuel will be laid to rest in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com