Shirley Jean-Neuharth-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Nelson Funeral Homes - Fessenden

Shirley Jean Neuharth

Oct 18, 1945 - May 27, 2025

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Dear Scott, Brad and Travis...I've been thinking so much about all of you, your Mom and your Dad. Your family was such a big part of ours in my "growing up" years. Your parents were some of my first "employers" allowing me to babysit for them but also became friends in my adult years. Your Mom's laugh would make anyone giggle with her and her spiciness was without competition. I have way too many memories of her to choose just one, so I will just say that she will be missed by all who had...

So sorry to hear of Shirley's passing! My heart goes out to you boys and your family. Continue prayers. God's blessings.

I was sad to hear of Shirley’s passing. We grew up together and were best friends through high school. Praying for the family as you go through this difficult time.

I wish I was talking to you in person ,but would like you to know just what A special cousin you were to me.We will see each other in the futher Heaven.

It’s not easy to say goodbye to Shirley as a cousin and friend. I’ll think of it as see you again and give your Aunt Helen and all the family a hug. I will miss you very much.
Condolences to your sons and their families. They are all Such special people!

Shirley my goodness our family goes so far back in Drake from you and Buddy and our parents being not just neighbors but friends. And babysitting at that time for your boys. Uuuufta. I'll always remember you in the school office mostly perky until one of the Schnase kids came in because we did something. You were so loved and will be missed!!

Obituary

Shirley Jean's Obituary

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.

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