Obituary

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Alex Shiriaev, 74, who passed away on November 23, 2025. Born on March 5, 1951, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Alex lived a remarkable life defined by hard work, ingenuity, and a presence impossible to forget.

Alex graduated from North Side High School in 1970. Soon after, he began an electrical apprenticeship and earned his place as a journeyman electrician—skills he carried with pride throughout his life. His dedication and expertise led him to the VA Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he steadily rose to become the head electrician. His time at the VA reflected not only his technical mastery but also his reliability, leadership, and commitment to serving others as the union steward.

In the early 1980s, Alex's entrepreneurial spirit drove him to begin selling and installing satellite dishes. What began as a modest venture soon grew into a thriving enterprise. Through innovation, boldness, and sheer determination, Alex expanded his company into one of the major distributors for Dish Network satellites and related equipment in the United States.

Never one to stand still, Alex later transitioned into commercial real estate, applying the same vision and business savvy that had defined his earlier career. He built a respected presence in the industry, approaching each new project with the same drive and fearlessness that had fueled his success for decades.

Though his professional achievements were many, those who knew Alex will remember him most for the qualities that made him unforgettable: his quick wit, his sharp tongue, and a personality big enough to fill any room he entered. He had a way of making people laugh, think, and pay attention—sometimes all at once. His humor was unique, his presence absolutely unforgettable, and his spirit larger than life.

Outside of work, Alex embraced life with enthusiasm. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, getting a good deal, and—true to his bold personality—telling people his opinion, whether they wanted to hear it or not. These passions and traits made him who he was: vibrant, honest, driven, and always authentically himself. He was a proud Indiana Freemason and a 10-year chip-carrying AA member.

Alex is survived by his brother, George (Karen) Shiriaev; his son, Nicholas Shiriaev; his daughter, Michelle (Jerry) Love; and six grandchildren: Olivia, Gabriel, Owen, Josiah, Harrison, and Samuel.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stefan Shiriaev; his mother, Maria Juillerat; and his stepfather, Orville Juillerat.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, at Saint Nicholas Eastern Orthodox Cathedral, 3535 Crescent Ave., with calling one hour prior, Fr. Michael Myers will officiate.

Calling will also be held at the church on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m., with Entry Prayer at 12:45 p.m. and a Trisagion Service at 7:30 p.m.

Burial will take place at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Memorials may be made to Saint Nicholas Eastern Cathedral. FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.

Alex Shiriaev leaves behind a story of determination, vision, and a vibrant, unforgettable spirit—one that will continue to inspire and guide the people fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

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