Shirley May Palen

Shirley M. Palen

June 11, 1931 – November 6, 2025

Shirley May Palen, age 94 of Hartland, WI reunited with her husband George J Palen Jr. on November 6, 2025.

Faith was the cornerstone of Shirley's life. She lived every day with a steadfast trust in God, guiding her actions, her relationships and her generous spirit. Her kindness, patience, and strength touched all who knew her and reflected the depth of her belief in the Lord.

As a loving person, her family was her greatest joy, evidenced by her countless photos and gifts proudly displayed in her home.

Shirley had many passions (cooking, gardening, painting, sewing, making yard art with her husband, hunting, fishing, volunteering at an elementary school, but most notable crocheting "scrubbies". Never with idle hands, Shirley was well known for crocheting "scrubbies." From doctor offices, family, friends and to the rural villages of Rwanda, many have benefitted from her multipurpose treasures.

A creative soul, Shirley found great happiness in arts and crafts. She had a remarkable talent for turning simple materials into beautiful creations, each piece reflecting her care and attention to detail. Her handiwork brightened the homes of friends and family alike and will be cherished for years to come.

Shirley was incredibly hardworking. Whether in her career, her home, or in her church community, she approached every task with dedication and integrity. Her tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment inspired all who had the privilege of knowing her. Shirley worked at many places, but her longest and last job was motor lines at Briggs and Stratton. Her skill set was amazing, there was no "calling for someone to fix or repair" she could and would do it herself (until she couldn't).

Shirley was born June 6, 1931, to William and Rose (nee Knasinski) Drews. She was 2nd eldest of 16 children, 11 girls and 5 boys.

Shirley united in marriage with her "Blue Eyes" George J. Palen Jr. on May 6th, 1950. She is survived by their children, George Palen III (Rebecca); Debra Southern and Terri Grandlich (Thomas). Further survived by her grandchildren George Palen IV (Gina); Brandi Soderstrom (Jason); Tracy Josetti (Jeremy); Daniel Vanderloop (Kerri); Tiffany Twieg (Matthew); Leah Thompson (Michael); James Southern (Natalie); Nathan Southern (Morgan). 11 Great Grandchildren and 3 Great Great Grandchildren. She felt blessed to have her family of 5 generations.

Also survived by sisters (Joanne Fields, Sally Marks, Diane Brown, Rosemary (James)Brown and Gail (Jeff) Denkins) ; in-laws Diana Palen, Lois Krenke, Diane Palen, James (Mary) Palen and Nancy Wachowiacz along with many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband George J. Palen Jr. (Jan 3, 1999); son-in-law Randolph Southern, her parents, parent's in-law and siblings (Hildegard, Leroy, Deloris, Marge, William, Joseph, Richard, Sandy, Edward, Charlotte. In-law siblings Bobby, Jean, Ruth, Lora Lee, Betty, Ruth, Harold and John

Mom, Gramma, GiGi, we will miss you and you will always be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Hope Center of Waukesha or any charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Funeral services for Shirley will be held at WISCONSIN MEMORIAL PARK, FAMILY CENTER WEST CHAPEL 13037 W. Capitol Dr. Brookfield WI.

Tuesday November 18th, Visitation 10AM-12:00 PM, service at 12:00 PM, Internment following at WI Memorial Park.