Shirley Joyce Ellerbusch

Shirley Joyce Ellerbusch, 71, beloved sister, aunt and friend passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2021.  Shirley was born August 1,1950 in Appleton, Wisconsin, daughter of Robert and Dorothy (Pinc) Ellerbusch.

Shirley received her BA from Lakeside College.  She worked in customer relations at Gimbles/Marshall Fields, Cellulink, and Pitney Bowes. Shirley enjoyed working part time as an Avon rep then a Calphalon cookware rep.

Shirley made everyone she met feel special with her pleasant personality and kind smile.  She loved road trips and was the best passenger.  She was an avid card player.  Shirley especially enjoyed playing cards on Sundays with her brother Tim.  She also delighted in the company of her friends, Mary and Cindy, playing cards until her final days.  Shirley maintained the art of snail mail with her beautiful homemade, handwritten cards.  Shirley enjoyed scrapbooking and made specialized scrapbooks for family and friends.  She loved giving collectible Hallmark ornaments as Christmas gifts. 

Shirley was the favorite aunt of her nieces and nephews for both family and friends.  She created a memorable “Special day with Shirley” for birthday celebrations that included dinner, shopping, playing cards, and always catered to the celebrants’ favorite activities.

Shirley was the family historian.  She kept her mother’s memory alive and family turned to Shirley with genealogy questions.

Shirley was a devoted Christian, had a strong love for the Lord and it resonated with others. Her deep faith brought great peace to her in her last months.

Shirley is survived by her brother James, (Mary)  niece Andrea Gonzales (Jorge, Adah, Emilia, Magdalena, Viola), niece Laura Benkendorf (Joseph, Althea, Magnolia), nephew Luke; brother Edward (Sally) nephew Ryan; brother Timothy; and “her sister she never had” Janis (Ronald) Steffen, Holly and Pierce.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents. 

A special thank you to the caregivers at Rennes, Care Partners Assisted Living and Theda Care Hospice.

There will be a private service for family due to Covid.  For those attending, please wear a little something purple to honor Shirley by wearing her favorite color.