Aubrey died suddenly on January 1st at Parkview Assisted Living in Surprise. Only one month earlier he had celebrated his 100th birthday.
He is survived by his only son Aubrey Birkelbach Jr. and wife Lynette, grandchildren Dena, Karl, and Tamerlane, and great-grandchildren Maya, Noah, Asher, and Jasmine, all living in Australia.
Aubrey worked from age 17, until his retirement, with Aetna Oil of Louisville, Kentucky and later with Ashland Oil and Ashland Chemicals in Ashland , Kentucky and Dublin, Ohio.
He was a tireless member of several Baptist churches in the Sun City area, serving as deacon in two of them.
His life was one of professional excellence and private good humor. He loved passing along jokes and unlimited puns.
He will now join his beloved wife, Helen also interred at Sunland. At the family's request, due to the risks associated with public gatherings, the graveside service will be limited to a few members of his church by invitation.
