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Shirley L Straub

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Shirley Straub Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 30, 2025.

Shirley Jean Straub (82) of Barnum MN gained her wings surrounded by family December 27th, 2024, after an unexpected illness.

Born to Gladys and Clifford Vraa in 1942 right in the middle of 9 children in Fargo, ND. Shirley was born to be a care giver, being "mom" to her younger siblings that she loved to love and "boss" around whenever needed. She graduated from Fargo Central High School in 1960. She married Alvin Straub in 1963 and they moved to Minnesota, and they went on to welcome four children: Wayne, James, Becky, and Pamela. They dairy farmed in Kettle River until Alvin passed away in 1987 and Shirley moved to Barnum and dedicated her life to taking care of Pam and creating a new life in town. In 1990, she became a grandma for the first time and was the loving grandma everyone wished they had. Over the years, she welcomed 8 more grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and of course welcomed any dog or cat that needed a home! She made every effort to attend sporting events, plays, and birthday parties of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her happy place was taking any opportunity to be around family, quietly observing, laughing, and then surprising you with a witty one-liner and of course listening to music especially Elvis! Dedicated to her faith, she attended many bible studies with friends and faithfully attended Westside Church in Kettle River. She is greatly missed and her service to others is unparalleled.

Preceded in death by her husband, Alvin and parents Gladys and Clifford Vraa. Also, her brothers Myron, Jerry and Jim and sisters, Patty and Diane and sister-in-law Leona Whitaker.

She is missed greatly by her children: Wayne and James and her daughters Becky (Brad) Wozney and Pam (now since deceased).

Grandchildren Taylor (Andy) Wischnewski, Landen (Kelsey) Straub, Brandt Straub (Megan Waller), Ari Straub, Sarah Straub and David Straub, Annika Wozney and Katelyn Wozney.

Great grandchildren Presley Wischnewski, Percy Straub and Gwen Straub.

Sisters Cleone Pulczinski (now since deceased), Jan (Gary) Cossette and Betty (Michael) Ranney and sister-in-laws Marlene McMaster, Cheri Vraa and Darlene Magstadt.

A service will be held at Westside Church in Kettle River on Oct. 4th at 2:00 PM.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.