Shirley Jane Retzler

Shirley Jane Retzler of Carmel, California, formerly of Palos Verdes Estates, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born on May 27, 1933, in Youngstown, Ohio, Shirley was the eldest of Cecil and Vernetta Moore’s three children. Her early years were spent on her grandfather’s farm in Coitsville, Ohio, before her family moved to Boardman and later Poland, Ohio. Shirley recalled her childhood as one filled with family, friends, and a deep appreciation for nature and education. Her father instilled in her a love of the outdoors, while her mother nurtured her creative spirit and passion for learning. Shirley graduated from Poland Seminary High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Kent State University.

Shirley’s passion for the arts defined her life. She began her career as an art teacher at Wooster High School. After marrying R. Edgar Retzler in 1957, the couple moved to Palo Alto, California, where Shirley worked as a production artist for Ampex Corporation. Shirley and Ed eventually settled in Palos Verdes Estates, where they raised their children and became deeply involved in community life.

She found creative inspiration everywhere—in color, light, form, texture, and pattern—and she shared that vision generously. In 1976, Shirley was instrumental in developing Art at Your Fingertips, a program that brought high-quality art instruction to thousands of elementary school students each year. She also participated in other community arts organizations including the Palos Verdes Art Center, Rembrandt Crew, Sew and Tell, and Art for Fun(d)s Sake.

In 2011, Shirley and Ed moved to Carmel Valley Manor, a retirement community rich with artistic opportunities. Even in her late 80s, Shirley could be found behind a loom in the weaving studio, fitting a tailored garment in the sewing room, or curating an exhibit in the Manor’s gallery. Her creative energy never dimmed, and today her personality and spirit live on in the paintings, prints, sculptures, jewelry, and clothing she created with such passion.

Shirley is survived by her daughter Nicole Retzler, son-in-law Andrew Hage, grandson Alexander Hage, and brother Ray Moore. She was preceded in death by her husband Ed Retzler, son Todd Retzler, and brother Ronald Moore.

Close family members gathered for a celebration of life on September 20, 2025, at Wooster Cemetery in Ohio, where Shirley was interred alongside her husband, son, and extended family.