Shirley Velte

Shirley (Peebles) Velte passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Shirley was born in Hortonville on November 25, 1941 on her grandparents' farm. Her parents, Charlie and Gertrude (Lenzner) Peebles lived in Shiocton at the time. Seven years later they purchased their farm on Hwy S in New London. Her favorite school years were grades 4-6 at Sleepy Hollow, a one room school. The Mosquito Hill 4-H Club was organized there. Shirley was secretary and treasurer for the club as well as a member of the Sly Fox Ski Club in Appleton for 30 plus years. She also volunteered at Dale Food Pantry for 15 years or so.
In 1960, Shirley married Al Riojas and had two wonderful daughters, Victoria and Cindy. Although they went their separate ways in 1980, they remained close for the family's sake. In 1984, Shirley met and married Chris Velte. Shirley was a Charter member of the Hortonville Lionettes Club and held secretary and historian positions there. She also was Rodeo Queen Chairman for Little Britches Rodeo and worked at Neenah Foundry for 26 years. Later, Shirley was the High School Secretary in Shiocton for awhile. She then retired from John Birch Society in 2006.
Shirley's interests included her love for gardening, Harley riding, horseback riding, hunting, skiing, boating and taking walks in the woods. She had a huge fondness for all animals.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Gertrude; brothers, Lynn and Bruce Peebles; father and mother in law, Thomas and Doris (Nagel) Velte.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Christopher; daughters; Victoria Rojas and Cindy (Jim) Walter; grandchildren; Brittany (Josh) Moe, Shanna Bartels, Alexis Walter, Austin Walter; great grandchildren, Grayson and Zion; as well as other family and friends.
The Memorial Service for Shirley will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Stephensville on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Lillo officiating. The visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
You were the best wife, mother, lover, and friend. Love always and rest in peace till we meet again–Chris
Mom's pride and joy were always her family and dear friends. A special thanks goes out to St. Elizabeth's Hospital staff, Hospice team, and Pastor Lillo.