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Shirley Graczyk Obituary
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Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 22 years, Arthur Frank Graczyk; parents Joseph and Ledwina (Kraemer) Heille; sister Rita (John) Maginnis, brothers Nick and Bernie Heille.
Shirley spent her earliest years in Southeast Minneapolis and grew up in the Northeast part of the city. Early in her marriage, Shirley lived in New York and Ohio. She and Art returned to Columbia Heights, MN, to raise their family, and she lived there the majority of her life. Shirley moved to The Glenn in Hopkins in 2017.
Shirley graduated from Edison High School, obtained her bachelor's degree at the University of Minnesota, and completed her master's degree at the University of Saint Thomas. She spent her entire career teaching accounting at North Hennepin Community College.
A dedicated volunteer, Shirley spent her retirement caring for others at Catholic Eldercare, Crest View Senior Community, St. Francis Cabrini, and more. She and her husband spent their early years as part of a Workers of Mary group. Shirley was a passionate supporter of local and regional theater, rarely missing a performance at the Guthrie Theater.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to North Hennepin Community College Foundation, Guthrie Theater, or Church of St. Francis Cabrini.
Arrangements through Billman-Hunt Funeral Chapel. Visitation and rosary on Thursday, October 10 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass at St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Church, 1500 Franklin Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN on Friday, October 11 at 11:00 AM, with visitation at the church 90 minutes prior. Interment to follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Luncheon to follow.
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Joan Mielzarek
October 11, 2024
To Carol, I am sorry I couldn´t make it to the service. Now she can Re- unite with your dad . And Here is my Address: Joan Mielzarek 211 7th street East Apt # 516 Saint Paul, Mn 55101 . Take care of yourself!
Brian Wolf
October 9, 2024
Hi Carol, Noel and Phillip,
So sorry to hear about your mom passing. Memories of your mom go way back before I took my first accounting class at North Hennepin. It was that class which moved me from pre-Dent to Accounting and was the foundation for my 41 year career. Your mom was the catalyst. I live in California so will be unable to make her memorial. My best to you and your families. Brian
Jennifer Sopsic
October 2, 2024
I´d like to share my heartfelt condolences to the immediate members of the Graczyk family and their loved ones: Philip, Noel,Carol, Wendie and all of the grandchildren (Wyatt, Joel & Evan). Loss is devastating, life changing and emotionally draining. Please remember each day that passes becomes easier as you naturally embrace the devastating loss of life by recalling special memories, occasions, favorite meals together, etc. I have always been touched by a specific memory shared by Philip prior to the loss of his father. A magical trip to Disneyland and Disneyworld involving a family ride on the Dumbo attraction.
While I was not close enough to Shirley to share any specific memories personal to me; I honed her passion for education, charitable spirit and her secret recipe for blueberry muffins. Shirley exuded much love for the Catholic faith and her siblings Rita, Bernie, Nick and Chris. I wish you all the best and am hopeful you find inner peace following her passing. In my situation it took ten years to recover from the loss of my beloved parents. Take your time with the process; slow and steady wins the race. Many blessings, much love and namaste. Jennifer Sopsic
Valerie Chase-Thurber
October 1, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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Carol A Kraemer Osborn
September 30, 2024
Shirley was the kindest, most thoughtful woman. When my parents passed away, she was so kind with her words and actions.
Joan Mielzarek
September 30, 2024
To Carol , I am so sorry to hear about your mom! You have my sympathy. I know it will be hard to lose a parent . Your mom lived a great life. Prayers for you. Take care . Remember your mom will be looking down on you . Sincerely yours, Joan Mielzarek .
Here is my address: 211 7th Street East Apt # 516 Saint Paul, Mn 55101
Joan Mielzarek
September 29, 2024
Your heart soon will be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
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2701 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
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