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October 13, 1927 – August 17, 2024

Shirley J. Janssen passed away on August 17, 2024, surrounded by the warmth of her family in her beloved home in Dowagiac. Born on October 3, 1927, Shirley’s life was a tapestry of devotion to her family and the simple joys that life offers.

A homemaker and the heart of her family, Shirley dedicated her life to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a cherished mother to four sons, William “Bill” (Vickie) Janssen of Decatur, Richard “Rick” (Brenda) Janssen of Dowagiac, David (Toni) Janssen of Dowagiac, and Steven (Alice) Janssen of Sodus. She was also a loving mother to her three daughters, Sandy (Chuck) Fancher, Diane (Bill) Visel, and Judy (Fred) Bournay, all of Dowagiac. Her legacy further blooms in the lives of her thirty-one grandchildren, sixty great-grandchildren and twenty-six great-great grandchildren, all of whom she adored. Shirley’s life was also enriched by her very special sister, Sharon Kurdelmeyer of Dowagiac, and many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her cooking.

Shirley now joins in eternal rest her parents, Floyd Tinkey and Waneta (Brown) Tinkey-Carman, stepfather, Milan Carman, her husband, John Janssen, whom she married on June 1, 1946, her sons Charles and John Janssen, her sister, Betty Tinkey, brothers, Bill Tinkey and Robert Tinkey, along with a great-granddaughter, Erin Flory, who preceded her in death.

She was a member of the Holy Maternity of Mary Catholic Church in Dowagiac, Michigan.

Shirley’s interests painted the picture of a woman who found joy and contentment in the simple pleasures of life. She was an excellent cook and baker, often found in the kitchen preparing meals that would bring the entire family together. A voracious reader, she also enjoyed the challenge of crossword puzzles, keeping her engaged. Shopping was another delight for Shirley, though her greatest pleasure was always found in the company of her family.

Condolences and memories may be shared with her family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Maternity of Mary Catholic Church in Dowagiac, Michigan.

May she rest in peace and her memory be treasured forever.