Shirley Jean Neuharth, 79, of Drake, ND passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at her home in Drake. Services are pending. Arrangements are with the Bethke-Nelson Funeral Home of Drake, ND. Online condolences may be left at www.nelsonfuneralhomesnd.com.
Shirley was born October 18, 1945 to Art and Edna (Henne) Uhlich in Drake, ND.
Shirley spent her entire life in North Dakota, attending country school South of Drake and finished high school in Drake. She also attended Augustana University in Sioux Falls SD.
Shirley met and married Elmer (Buddy) Neuharth in 1965. She worked for the Drake School system for 40+ years and retired to a quiet life in Drake. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Drake. She was on numerous town boards throughout her life.
Shirley enjoyed watching her sons play sports as they grew up and rarely missed one of their games. She also had a lifelong joy of camping - starting out tent camping, then an RV, and finally a cabin on Crooked Lake, near Turtle Lake, ND.
She was never one to back down from a fight but always showing love when it was needed. Shirley had a tender heart for stray animals as well as people and never turned anyone away.
She will be greatly missed.
Shirley is survived by her three sons, Scott (Suzanne) Neuharth, Church Point, LA, Brad Neuharth, Mandan, ND, and Travis (TJ) Neuharth, Fargo, ND.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer (Buddy) Neuharth; and parents, Art and Edna Uhlich.
Read More