Shirley M. Kapitz

If you are reading this ,you will know that Arnie knocked on the patio door, took my hand and away we flew up to Heaven.  I am looking forward to being with all those who have gone before me, including my dear pooch, Gidget.

I was born on August 30, 1927 in Manitowoc, daughter of the late Matthew and Anna (Vesley) Klein.  I attended St. Boniface Catholic grade school.  While there, my brother Jerry was an alter boy.  I thought it was unfair that girls were not allowed to have that role so my dad nicknamed me Billy to make me feel better.  Now I can finally fill that role with my brother looking on!  I then graduated from Manitowoc Lincoln High School with the class of 1945.  After graduation, I went to work for White House Milk as a mail girl and met the love of my life, Arnie.  Our loved blossomed and we exchanged our marriage vows on November 27, 1948, at St. Boniface Catholic Church. That’s when the real adventures began! Our devotion to the Catholic faith was the cornerstone for our 65 years of wedded bliss. We shared many good times including travel, golf and many dinners at Greenstreet Food & Spirts.  Among my many activities, I was in the Manitowoc Marine Band Auxiliary, volunteered at Holy Innocents, played Bingo and enjoyed the sport of bowling.  I was quite the avid knitter, and for a long time I took my craft to various craft shows.  I also won several blue ribbons at the county fair for my awesome slippers.  I must say I was a whiz at Shutbox and Yahtzee.

I am survived by my many loves, including my daughter Debbie Kapitz, Manitowoc, my son Randy Kapitz, Manitowoc, my granddaughter Jessica Kadlec, Oak Creek, my grandson, Calvin Kapitz, Manitowoc, and my great grandchildren, Raymond and Lance Kadlec.  I must not forget Haroldine, our cute hippo in the front yard.  Nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends also survive.

Preceding me in death are my dear husband Arnie, my daughter, Vickie and my daughter, Mary Lou, my brother Gerald and many other relatives.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 3:00 PM until 5:45 PM on Thursday February 25, 2021 at St. Francis of Assisi, Waldo site, 1120 N. 14th St. Manitowoc.

Cremation has occurred and a memorial service will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday February, 25, 2021 at St. Francis of Assisi, Waldo site.  Officiating at the service will be Rev. Doug LeCaptain.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

I would like to extend a special thank you to the Holy Family Hospice, especially Nicole Reno and her  team for all the care and compassion shown towards me and my family.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.lendmanfh.com.

“I just want to thank God because It was one hell of a beautiful ride”

Lendman Funeral Home & Gathering Center, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

21 Comments

  1. Charlie Gilmore

    Debbie, my heartfelt condolences ?

    Reply
  2. Jeannine

    Dear Debbie, heaven was gearing up for one hell of a gal. God bless her soul, she is home.

    Reply
  3. Karen O’Leary

    Debbie and Randy, I was blessed to have known and bowled with your mother years ago. She was a hoot and kept me laughing. I have thought of her often over the years. Debbie you were blessed to receive her gift of outgoing friendship and humor. May your hearts be filled with warmth and love as you reflect on happy memories.

    Reply
  4. Kelly and Jim Eells

    Our deepest sympathy to the entire Kapitz family. Cherish all those good memories.

    Reply
  5. Luanne Chappell

    Debbie
    You are in my thoughts and prayers during this sorrowful time.
    Luanne (Walker) Chappell

    Reply
  6. Michael Korte

    Debbie and Randy, so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a great lady. I will never forget meeting her for the first time. She was so gracious and friendly to me.

    Reply
  7. Barb Jacquart

    My sincere sympathies Deb. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! Barb, LPN

    Reply
  8. Mary T Johnson

    To the t of Shirley you have my deepest sympathy
    Mary Johnson
    Manitowoc wi

    Reply
  9. Brother Mike Kadow

    Mrs. Kapitz was a friendly, welcoming and fun loving presence. I offer my sympathy to all of her family esp to her son Randy. May she rest in peace! I hope the bowling alleys and golf courses meer her standards! Prayers for all!

    Reply
  10. Martha Kapitz, your niece and Goddaughter

    Aunt Shirley was such a character and will surely be missed. She had a special place in my heart as she was my Godmother. I have many fond memories spending time at your beautiful home Rapids. So glad you an Uncle Arnie have met again in God’s Kingdom. Please give my dad a big hug and kiss! Until we meet again!

    Reply
  11. Louis & Patty Schram

    Our sympathy goes out to the whole family. May your memories bring you comfort.

    Reply
  12. Marilyn (Becker) Muench

    I am a second cousin of Shirley. My dad, Ted Becker, was her first cousin. My deepest sympathy to Debbie and Randy. May wonderful memories keep her close to your hearts.

    Reply
  13. Marilyn (Becker) Muench

    I am a second cousin of Shirley. My dad, Ted Becker, was her first cousin. My deepest sympathy to Debbie and Randy. May wonderful memories keep her close to your hearts.

    Reply
  14. Marilyn (Becker) Muench

    I am a second cousin to Shirley. My dad, Ted Becker, was her first cousin. My deepest sympathy to Debbie and Randy. May wonderful memories keep her in your hearts.

    Reply
  15. Nancy Wester

    I am so sorry for the passing of your mom Debbie and Randy. I am thinking of you both during these sad days.

    Reply
  16. Nancy Wester

    I am so sorry for the passing of your mom Debbie and Randy.

    Reply
  17. Sue Schmitz

    Debbie: So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Hugs to you for taking care of both your mom & dad. Care giving is not an easy job!

    Reply
  18. Tina Hilbelink (& Family)

    Debbie, after reading the obit I bet your Mom will be smiling on her way. But people are left behind and may your sadness and sorrow be replaced by all the memories you’ve shared. Take care.

    Reply
  19. Pam Fanslau

    So sorry for your loss Debbie and Randy. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I remember Shirley sitting in her rocker knitting with Gidget at her feet. My purple slippers and fond memories are with me.

    Reply
  20. Colleen Petska

    Today is the day Shirley Whirley. You and your gang of loved ones sit back enjoy your beautiful send off. Even though you might not think it you meant the world to people through your many acts of kindness . And even though you could not hear that well you always managed to lend a kind and compassionate ear to those in need. God Bless you Shirley Whirley Hit the clouds running !!!!!! We are with you in spirit

    Reply
  21. Nancy & Jerry Herrmann

    Dear Debbie and Randy,
    Jerry and I would like to extend our sympaty to both of you. You will miss her, but she and your Dad will remain in your hearts forever. We enjoyed reading her obitutary which really showed her true personality and love of life. Jerry & Nancy Herrmann

    Reply

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