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Jan. 6, 1938-Dec. 24, 2023

 

Shirley A. Neumann, 85, a lifelong resident of Dowagiac, passed away Sunday morning, Dec. 24, 2023, at Woodland Terrace of Bridgman in Bridgman, Michigan.
She was born on Jan. 6, 1938, in Dowagiac, the daughter of Francis and Frances (Karsten) Ely. In 1956, Shirley graduated from Dowagiac Central High School. Later that same year, she was united in marriage to Fredrick C. Neumann. She later graduated from beauty school and worked as a beautician for several years, before raising her 2 children. She later worked for many years in the family business, Neumann Oil Company in downtown Dowagiac, with her husband, Fred, who preceded her in death in 2016.
Also preceding her in death were her parents; step-mother — Della Ely; sister — Barbara Lipke; and two brothers — Douglas Ely and George Benoit.
Surviving are her two children — Brad Neumann and Carrie (Jennings Brosnan) Neumann; granddaughter — Caitlon (Jared) Jones; four great-grandchildren — Lauren, Abagail, Natalie and Carter Jones; brother — Ross Ely; and several nieces and nephews.
Honoring Shirley’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no public visitation or services. Private family inurnment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Dowagiac. Arrangements were entrusted to Clark Chapel – Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 405 Center St, Dowagiac. Those wishing to share a memory of Shirley online may do so at www.clarkch.com