Fukue Shelby

Fukue "Frankie" Ichikawa Shelby

October 18, 1930- September 30, 2025

Fukue "Frankie" Ichikawa Shelby passed away peacefully surrounded by members of her family at The Kaplan Family Hospice Center in Newburgh on Tuesday afternoon. Fukue was born on October 18, 1930, daughter of Toku Kinochito and Zuzo Ichikawa in Machida, Japan.

Fukue grew up on a farm right outside of Tokyo with her parents and 6 siblings. It was during this time she developed her love of gardening and her knack for picking the most delicious fruits and vegetables.

In 1951, Fukue worked as a waitress at a military post exchange where her late husband, Selwyn "Sonny" Shelby, was stationed during the Korean war. Shortly after they met they had their first daughter, moved to the United States and were married by Sonny's Uncle Harry.

Fukue started her life in the United States living in Brooklyn, New York raising her 4 daughters. She worked in the garment district of New York City, sewing linings into coats for a private company. In 1970, the whole family moved together to Scotchtown New York, and Fukue and Sonny would continue to commute to New York City to work for many years.

Many people are familiar with Fukue as the beloved "Obachan." Fukue spent the remaining years of her life loving and caring for her 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She was always found in the kitchen cooking up chicken soup or baking her famous and inimitable chocolate chip cookies. She would sing and smile with delight as she fed and nourished her family.

The name Fukue translates to "Happiness" and she lived her life with immense joy that touched every single person she encountered. She inspired her family to live fully with her inspiring courage and strength of spirit. Her laughter, quick wit, and incredible dance moves will be missed by all.

Fukue is predeceased by her husband Selwyn Shelby and son-in-law Clifford Venturini. She is survived by her 4 daughters, Edith Venturini, Annie Connolly, Denise Isseks, and Sue Massaro; her sons in-law Fred Isseks, Martin Connolly and Keith Massaro; her grandchildren Jessica Mikos (Frank), Andrew Connolly, Jamie Connolly (Brian), Nick Venturini, and Sadie Isseks; great-grandchildren Francesa, James, Victoria, Olivia, and Vincent; and many nieces and nephews and close family friends who also saw her as their Obachan too.

Graveside services will be held this Friday Oct 3 at the Veterans Cemetery on Craigsville Rd. in Goshen, NY at 11:15am. Memorial contributions can be sent to the Orange County Arboretum.