Shirley Shore, 87, of Bellevue, passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at her home. The daughter of the late Harry and Leona (Hanson) Otto was born Oct. 31, 1935, in the Town of How. Shirley quickly proved herself as an independent woman and hard worker, moving first to Milwaukee where she worked for Cutler-Hammer typing order forms, and then to Los Angeles, where she started working for the Hughes Aircraft Company. It was here that she met John David Shore, who she would go on to marry on July 12, 1958, in Las Vegas.
The couple began raising their family in California, during which time Shirley continued a journey of lifelong learning by attending classes in the evening at Cypress College. They moved back to Wisconsin in 1971, and Shirley worked her way from a CNA to an LPN, first earning an associate degree, and later a bachelor’s degree in human development from University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 1985. Wherever she worked, Shirley’s co-workers loved and admired her, not just for her work ethic, but for her genuine and caring demeanor and unflagging wit and humor.
Shirley also loved animals and made a consistent effort to support the efforts of many animal-focused charitable organizations. She enjoyed traveling and was able to visit many national parks. A favorite memory is a trip to Yellowstone with her family. After retirement, she enjoyed spending more time with family and perfecting her skills as an excellent cook and baker. More recently, she took several road trips out west and liked to settle in at night watching westerns, mysteries and public television.
Survivors include her two sons, David and Brian; grandchildren, which Shirley raised as her own after the death of her daughter Lisa, Michael Spencer, Mary Spencer, Raphael (Amanda Lowther) Spencer and his daughter Aria; siblings, Gloria Janskovitch and Jeffrey Otto.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John David Shore; parents, Harry and Leona Otto; daughter, Lisa Shore Spencer; and siblings, Marilyn (Ralph) Gadbois and LeRoy (Sandra) Otto.
A private memorial will be held for Shirley’s family. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.
Our family would like to thank the nursing staff at Aurora BayCare and Unity Hospice for their care and concern.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memories in Shirley’s memory to your favorite local animal organization.
Shirley Shore
