Shirley Malone VANEK

VANEK, Shirley Malone 84, passed away at her home in Austin, Texas, surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, December 13, 2017.   She was born on November 2, 1933 in Tucson, Arizona to Ralph and Floradel (Smith) Malone. She was a generous spirit and was always helping those in need.  Throughout her life she was known for her quick wit and sage advice (often unsolicited) and we are all the better for it. Above all she treasured her family. Shirley was raised in Tucson where she played and rode horses in the desert near her home. She graduated from Amphitheater High School and attended the University of Arizona in Tucson.  She met her husband Jerry on a blind date.  They married in 1954 and Shirley began her life as an Air Force wife after Jerry completed his pilot training.  They were stationed in Air Force bases in Texas, Arizona, England and Italy.  A friend said it best, " Wife to a warrior, living around the world and sometimes home as a single parent while her husband is off fighting for our country.  Just did it.  They don't make them like that anymore!" When her children were older, Shirley became a successful real estate agent and broker with Century 21 in Austin, earning honors as a top agent and Broker of the Year.  All the while, she gifted others with her talents by creating beautiful stained glass pieces, mosaics and finely crafted silver  jewelry.  Shirley loved art and had a keen eye for design and décor.   She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Jerry; children, Jeff (Cheryl) Vanek, Zoe Vanek, Karen (Bill) Hoover, Julie Thompson, Mark (Patty Bruner) Vanek, Brian (Claudine) Vanek, and David Vanek; 10 grandchildren and four great- grandchildren; sister, Karen (Jack) Hoover; brother, Barry (Debbie Bachel) Malone; and her much loved nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving son-in-law, Jim Thompson. Shirley battled breast cancer for many years and fought with grace, determination, and courage that was an inspiration to all who knew her.  Shirley will be dearly missed and can be honored in memorial contributions to Hospice Austin, Austin Pets Alive, or the cause that speaks to your heart. The family will host a celebration of life in Austin, Texas.