Shirley M. Henning

Shirley Mae Henning (Klug), age 94 of Freedom, WI joined her heavenly Father on April 1, 2025. She was born to the late Alfred and Ann (Beringer) Klug on September 11, 1930 in Appleton, WI. After graduating Appleton West High School, she married the first love of her life, Jim Schmidt in 1949 and worked with him in the photography business, establishing themselves with their shop, Photoland Inc. in Appleton. Together, they raised their daughter, Jamie, before his passing in December of 1986. After his passing, she found love again with Delmar Henning and they were married in 1994.

Shirley always had a can-do attitude and a smile on her face no matter what. She had many hobbies throughout her life that brought her joy. She picked up the art of wood burning at one point, etching everything freehand. She enjoyed singing with the church choir, the Thompson Center musicals and, most recently, with her next door neighbor, Mary, at Country Villa. She enjoyed traveling and experiencing different beauties of nature and cultures of the regions she visited. Shirley had a strong faith in God’s love for her and belonged to the Christian Mothers group for many years. She was best known by her neighbors at Jungle Lake for going dock to dock, picking everyone up for Happy Hour. More than anything, though, she loved and cherished every moment spent with her family.

Shirley will be deeply missed by her daughter, Jamie Spice (special friend Kevin Kundert); her brother, Jack (Eunice) Klug; her step-daughter, Debra (Tom) Helm; her step-grandson, Brandon (Lia) Helm; her step-great-grandchildren, Nolan and Peter; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Shirley is preceded in death by her husbands, Jim Schmidt and Delmar Henning; as well as many in-laws.

A funeral visitation will be held for Shirley from 9:30 – 11:15 AM on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 500 W. Marquette St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a mass to follow at 11:30 AM. She’ll be laid to rest alongside Jim at St. Edward the Confessor Church Cemetery in Mackville, WI.

Shirley’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Country Villa Assisted Living and Moments Hospice for all of their care and compassion shown to Shirley during her time of need.

“Love you always and forever.” - Your Jamie Girl