Shirley Klempnauer Obituary

Shirley Ann Klempnauer (nee Neighbors) died of Parkinson's in her Capitola, CA, home on June 11, 2023 at the age of 84. She passed away peacefully with family present. Born in Porterville, CA, Shirley was the second of three daughters of Katherine and Alvin Neighbors. A graduate of Porterville High School, Shirley transferred from the local community college to UC Berkeley, where she earned a bachelor's degree in child development. Shirley began her elementary school teaching career in Santa Cruz County, where she made her home. During her 40+-year career, Shirley taught in several local schools and in Germany, where the Klempnauers lived for 4 years, until she retired from Capitola Elementary School in 2004. She was known for her love of art - especially Impressionists - and for inspiring students to become independent readers. Shirley was a movie fan who also enjoyed outings with friends, most of whom were fellow educators. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Len, her two children, Kristin and Erik, and her two sisters, Joan Brown and Debbie Charlie. The family will not be holding services. If you would like to honor Shirley, please make a donation to your local school.

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Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel from Jun. 21 to Jun. 23, 2023.

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