Shirley Lave

Shirley "Punk" Lave, passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 20, 2025, just one day shy of her 88th birthday. Born on April 21, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, Shirley's life was full of love, dedication, and empathy, woven into the hearts of all who knew her.
A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Shirley was the treasured wife of the late Alfred Lave and a supporting friend to her six stepchildren. She was the cherished daughter of the late Mildred (nee Hornof) and the late Valentine Theres, and a loving sister to her siblings the late Jack (the late Rose) Theres, Pat (the late Whitey) Crandall, the late Beverly Theres, and the late Bill (Cindy) Theres. She is survived by her sister Barb (Joe) Defilippis and brother Ed (Wendy) Theres. Shirley's legacy of love continues through her own children Terry (Suzy) Bjorklund, Tom (Renay) Bjorklund, Tammie (Steve) Charnas, Patti (Joe Marassa) Stimatz, and Ed (Kim) Bjorklund.
Her grandchildren, Tom (Tracy) Bjorklund, Brendon Bjorklund, Eric (Alexandra) Bjorklund, Steve (Virgina) Charnas, Nick (Jessie) Kasper, Necee (Brian) Morgan, Joe (Liz) Stimatz, and Jamie (Jason) Stimatz, will carry forward her nurturing spirit. Shirley's great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, also survive her, each touched by her generosity and compassion.
Shirley, affectionately known as Punk to those close to her, was a beacon of love, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Her greatest joy was found in quilting. She believed in the comfort and connection that a handmade quilt could bring, ensuring that every newborn in the family was welcomed with the warm embrace of her craft. Her quilts were not just blankets; they were stories, memories, and hugs that could be felt even in her absence.
In times of loss, Shirley's thoughtful nature shone brightly as she lovingly transformed the clothing of family members who had passed into quilts, pillows, and stuffed animals. These creations became cherished keepsakes, with memories and a sense of closeness to those who had left the physical world. Her ability to turn grief into tangible tokens of remembrance was a gift that provided comfort and connection to many.
Shirley's life was a testament to the power of giving. She was a matriarch in every sense of the word, her heart and home always open. Her presence was a source of stability and comfort, her laughter a melody that resonated within the walls of family gatherings, and her advice a compass for those seeking direction.
In her passing, Shirley has left us with a quilt of memories, each square a story, each thread a connection. We are grateful for the time we had with such an extraordinary soul. Rest in peace, dear Shirley (Punk), and know that your legacy will continue to wrap us in love for generations to come.
Visitation, Thursday, April 24, 2025, 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral, Friday, April 25, 2025, 10:00AM Service and Time of Remembrance to be held at the funeral home.
Interment, Sacred Heart Cemetery, Palos Hills, Illinois.