Obituary

Shirley Ann Wolf (née Sonnenberg), age 89, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 4, 1936, to Austin Sonnenberg and Florence Roecker (née Schubert).

Shirley devoted her life to caring for those she loved. Whether mending clothes, baking homemade treats, or tending to her vibrant flower and vegetable gardens, her kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone around her. A cherished neighbor and loyal friend, she was always looking out for others, freely sharing her time and talents.

As a devoted member of St. Peter Catholic Church, Shirley often volunteered, especially assisting with funeral luncheons. She treasured the moments spent with friends, eagerly anticipating the monthly Wednesday night dinners at a nearby church. She also delighted in taking scenic drives to Amish country to gather baked goods and spices. Her genuine warmth and caring spirit touched all who crossed her path.

At home, Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures of watching birds and squirrels, savoring the peaceful beauty of nature around her. She shared her life with her beloved dog, Star, a faithful and loving companion who brought her much comfort.

She is survived by her three children: Cindy (Mike) Burkel, Jeff Wolf (partner Janet Deeley), and Brian (Yvonne) Wolf; eight grandchildren: Kelly (Nathan) Bremseth, Josh Wolf, Nicholas (Julie) Burkel, Benjamin (Carrie) Zuern, Meghan (John) Tramburg, Adam (Nichole) Burkel, Jordyn Wolf, and Alex Burkel (partner Samantha Lawson); and thirteen great-grandchildren: Kaleb and Kaylynn Burkel, Owen and Mason Bremseth, Landon Tramburg, Arrow, Willow, and River Burkel, Charley Wolf, Asher Burkel, and Levi, Wyatt, and Rhett Zuern. She is also lovingly remembered by Jack and Livvy Deeley and Drew Jones.

Shirley is further survived by her siblings, Donna Schaefer and Bobby Roecker (Cindy); her brother-in-law, Robert Wolf; sister-in-law, Delores Wolf; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph; her daughter, Kay; her father, mother, and stepfather, Arthur Roecker; an infant sister, Juanita Sonnenberg; beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles as well as many brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Shirley was heartbroken by the loss of both Ralph and Kay and while her family will miss her deeply, they find comfort knowing she longed to be reunited with them. We trust she is now at peace, surrounded once again by their love.

Shirley's enduring legacy is one of selfless care and unwavering kindness—a woman whose generosity, warmth, and steadfast presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at St. Peter Catholic Church (200 E. Washington St., Slinger, WI 53086) from 2:00 PM to 4:45 PM, followed by a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 5:00 PM, with the Very Rev. Richard J. Stoffel presiding. A private family interment will take place at the New St. Peter Cemetery at a later date.

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