Shirley Jean Wackerle

Shirley Jean Wackerle, née Pfab, age 90, of Berrien Springs, Michigan, passed away on April 28, 2026. She was born on April 8, 1936, in Saginaw, Michigan, and lived a life marked by love, kindness, and a spirit of adventure.

Shirley was the beloved wife of Ted Wackerle, with whom she shared nearly seven decades of marriage after they were united on August 11, 1956, in Bay City, Michigan. Together, they built a family that was central to her life and brought her great joy throughout the years. She was a devoted mother to Deb (Mike) Christensen, Brad Wackerle, and Ted A. Wackerle, and she treasured her role as grandmother to Victoria Krjewski and Kathy McCord, as well as great-grandmother to Anastasia and Elijah Krjewski. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Vivian (Dey) Pfab and Joseph Pfab.

Shirley dedicated much of her professional life to education as an elementary school teacher in the Saginaw and Mount Pleasant school systems. She approached her work with patience, warmth, and a genuine care for the children she taught. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, where she was remembered for her cheerful nature and her ability to make others feel welcome and valued.

A woman of faith, Shirley was a member of the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church and lived her Christian beliefs through the way she treated others. She was known as a loving and kind person who embraced life with enthusiasm. Those who knew her will remember her as a hugger, someone whose affection and friendliness came naturally and who made lasting impressions on the hearts of many.

In her personal life, Shirley enjoyed genealogy and took great interest in learning about her family history. She also loved camping in the Upper Peninsula, where she found joy in the time spent with those she loved in the beauty of the outdoors. Her adventurous spirit and cheerful outlook made her a delight to be around and added brightness to every gathering.

Shirley Jean Wackerle will be remembered with deep affection by her family, friends, church community, former students, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of devotion, warmth, and steadfast love will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Shirley was laid to rest at Rose Hill Cemetery.