Shirley Margaret Galecke, 87 of Highland, IN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, following a lengthy illness. She was born December 27, 1936, in Chicago, IL, to the late Ralph and Ella (Gorin) Joy. Shirley made her career in the insurance industry before retirement. She was a member of St. James the Less Catholic Church in Highland, and had volunteered for many years at Community Hospital in Munster. Shirley enjoyed bowling, dancing, and attending plays, musicals, and concerts. She will be remembered for her bubbly and outgoing personality. Shirley will be dearly missed.
On August 2, 1958, in Chicago, IL, Shirley married Joseph Galecke, who preceded her in death. She is survived by their daughter, Joann (Kent Stotler) Voss of Valparaiso, IN; grandchildren: Charles (Christy) Duerr, Alexandra (Matt Nadolski) Voss, and Nicholas (Haley Newbury) Voss; great-grandchildren: Caden, Chayse, Liam, and Ellie; sister, Theresa Smith of Memphis, TN; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, James “Jim” Joy.
Following cremation, a funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. James the Less Catholic Church, 9640 Kennedy Ave., Highland, IN, with visitation from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Shirley will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Calumet City, IL.
GUESTBOOK
Aunt Shirley was always one of my favorite family members on my fathers’ side. I have many fond memories, especially at Christmas time with her and I will always cherish those. I am currently trying to leave a very bad relationship and if I wasn’t so far away, I would be there at her memorial to say goodbye. I hope the best for the rest of the family at this time grieving Aunt Shirley and I will always miss her. -Maggie LeMay Regal
Many fond memories of my friend Shirley. We knew each other over 50 years and enjoyed bowling, dancing, laughable skits to entertain with many of our friends. Over the years miles kept us apart but we commutated with phone calls and holiday cards. She always had a smile, a laugh and a girlfriend to lean on. I told Shirley we would be like Thelma and Louise. Drive in a Cadillac over the Indiana dunes into lake Michigan. I guess I''ll have to do it alone. Health reasons keep me from visiting the last time. I will always remember Shirley, she is in my heart. Love always, girlfriend, -Betty Winiecki
Our deepest sympathy to the family. We had many happy times together from backyard football to card games. She will be deeply missed. Love, -Jim & Katherine Rybowiak
To Shirley's family, our sincere condolences. My mother Marcella Campbell (Chuck) used to bring me to the Dolton bowl from time to time and I would see all the girls and Shirley was one of them. She was always fun to be around and very nice person. We moved to Cedarburg Wisconsin in 1977 and Shirley and the girls would come up for a girls weekend. I have fond memories of hanging out with all the girls from the bowling league. They were always together over the years. Rest in peace Shirley and thanks for the good memories. I'm sure you're all reconnecting in heaven throwing those bowling balls around. -Scott Campbell
Shirley was a dear friend for 52 years, she was my first friend after I got married and moved here. She was an amazing person and friend. Shirley always made me feel so welcomed with her big smile and wonderful personality. Pete and I are so very sorry we will not be able to say goodbye but her spirit will live forever in our hearts. -Pete and Diana Dybowski
