Obituary of Shirley Kirsch

Shirley Kirsch, 82, of Niles, passed away at her home on Sunday, March 31, 2019.

Shirley was born on March 19, 1937, the middle child of the late Clarence and Marguerite (Shaffer) Conrad in Niles, Michigan.

She graduated from Niles High School in 1955; Shirley married Leo Kirsch at a ceremony in Edwardsburg on July 19, 1969. They later divorced after deciding they were better off living together as friends. She retired from Pawating Hospital in Niles after working there for 20 years. Shirley enjoyed baking bread and making cookies. Most every business that she frequented in town was a recipient of her cookies. She was one to make sure she had the final say on anyone that she felt had wronged her. She wrote the book on the many ways to get revenge, from egging cars, to throwing gravel. Shirley loved her beloved dog, Molly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Margaret and Thomas Conrad; and her ex-husband, Leo Kirsch.

Shirley is survived by her children, Pam (Judy) Closson of Niles; Tammy Closson of Niles; Steve (Kristen) Closson of Baroda and Becky (Rick) Wicks of Niles; three grandchildren, Zachary, and Samantha Closson and Baylee Davis; great-grandson, Liam; special cousin, Connie Knapp; and her special friend, Sandy Wilson.

Memorial contributions in her memory may be directed to the Berrien County Animal Shelter, also known as The Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan, 5400 Niles Rd, St. Joseph, MI 49085.

A Celebration of her life will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, April 5, 2019, at Brown Funeral Home in Niles. A time of visitation will begin at 5:00 PM.