Shirley J. Potempa's Obituary
Shirley J. Potempa, age 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in Muskegon, MI. She was born on June 5, 1935, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Milford “Jack” and Doris (Engelman) Civils. Shirley grew up in Rockford and graduated from Rockford High School with the Class of 1953. She was a dedicated and hardworking woman. Shirley worked for the Grand Haven Chamber of Commerce, Grand Haven Stamp Products, and lastly Donnelly and Mirrors, where she worked for 17 years before retiring in 2000. She lived in Grand Haven for nearly 30 years, before settling in Muskegon. For 35 years, Shirley shared a beautiful life with her beloved partner, John Dubault. Their love was filled with joy, laughter, and a shared passion for making memories. Whether it was encouraging John to sing at Nauty’s or enjoying nights at the Sandbar, Shirley was always his biggest cheerleader. Their bond was unconditional, built on love and a zest for life. She enjoyed tending to her garden with care, but her true passion was antiquing. She was an avid collector, always on the hunt for unique treasures that brought her joy. Above all, Shirley’s greatest love was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating a lifetime of memories filled with love and laughter. She will be remembered as a devoted partner, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and a dear friend to many. Her vivacious and fun-loving spirit brought light into the lives of those who knew her, and she will be deeply missed. She is survived by her loving life partner, John Dubault; three children, Tim (Margo) DeHaas, Tammy (Rich) Wojtowicz and Joe (Shana) Potempa; stepdaughter, Renee (Darrell) Dubault; eight grandchildren, Timothy (Cristina), Jacob (Racheal), Brooke, Jordan, Asia, Michael, Andrew and Natalie; eight great-grandchildren, Pierre, Jeremiah, Cassidy, Major, Promise, Tanner, Tilley and a baby boy on the way; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Forrest Civils. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 with a visitation one-hour prior. A Visitation with the family will be held from 4-8:00 PM on Monday, March 10, 2025, at The Lee Chapel. Memorial Contributions in Shirley’s honor can be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Charity of Choice. She will be laid to rest at Rockford Cemetery. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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