Shirley K. Dreis

RICHFIELD SPRINGS – Shirley K. Dreis, age 94, of Monticello Street passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, January 16, 2024 at her home with her family by her side.
Shirley was born on February 7, 1929 in Albany, a daughter of the late Paul and Helen Derby Kleetsch. She was raised in Colonie, NY and graduated from Roessleville High School. On April 2, 1949 she was united in marriage with Kenneth Dreis in Albany. A loving and devoted union of 74 years.
During her 54 years in Richfield Springs, Shirley was a committed member of the Church of Christ Uniting. She served on the church board, was a member of the women's guild and taught Sunday School as well as numerous other activities within the church. Shirley's strong faith and her love of family and friends was exhibited through her volunteerism in the community. She was involved in the RS Food Bank, Headstart, Folts Home Auxiliary, RSCS Band Booster Club and Girl Scouts. After spending her children's formative years as a home-maker, she went back to school to earn her reading certification and then worked as a Teacher's Assistant in the Reading department at RSCS until her retirement. She loved her work as it allowed her to combine her passion for teaching children and reading.
Shirley is survived by her husband Kenneth, a daughter Nancy (Greg) Fuller of Truxton, a son David (Sheryl) of Cicero, three grandchildren Andrew (Amanda) Dreis, Timothy (Natalie) Dreis, Kristen (Nick) Cinquanti, and six great-grandchildren; Landon, Mathias, Ryder, Henry, Barrett and Wyatt.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Virginia Guntrum.
A memorial service for Mrs. Dreis will take place on Saturday January 27, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Church of Christ Uniting on Church Street in Richfield Springs. Family friend and retired minister Reverend Mark Ioset will be officiating.
The family would like to convey their sincere appreciation to her Church of Christ Uniting family who vigilantly remained by her side over her last years. The many visits of these dear friends provided Shirley with a continued connection to the community and a window to the outside world. The family is also very appreciative of the high level of care, respect and attention provided by the care-givers who allowed Shirley to remain in the family home until her passing.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made with donations to the Church of Christ Uniting or Helios Hospice Care. Envelopes will be available at the church.
Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home, 40 West James Street, Richfield Springs.