Shirley M. Rau

Shirley M. Rau passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on January 21, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born in the Town of Little Black, Wisconsin, Shirley embodied the virtues of faith, love, and intelligence throughout her incredible journey of life.

Shirley's early years were shaped by the love of her parents, the late John "Jack" and Geraldine Gebert. And by her sisters the late Marietta Steevens, the late Audrey Juedes, and the late Eunice Mader and by her younger sister Donna Diedrich.

After graduating from Medford High School, Shirley held several jobs in the Eau Claire and Wausau areas. In a chance encounter at the county fair

Shirley met the man she would later marry, Robert Rau. Shirley married her late husband on a beautiful day in May of 1955. They then moved to Waukesha, Wi to start their life together. As the years went on Shirley had two children, moved to Oak Creek Wisconsin, Kokomo, Indiana and then back again to the Milwaukee area.

Shirley took pride during her life in her many roles, including being a dedicated Girl Scout and 4H leader. Her professional career was diverse and impactful; she efficiently managed responsibilities as a church secretary, sold real estate with a personal touch, and was integral in implementing membership management software at her church. She was also a skillful secretary for Manpower, bringing her meticulous attention to detail to every task she undertook.

Shirley enjoyed traveling with her family and close friends. During her travels she visited Hawaii, Germany, Switzerland, Alaska, Canada, and the New England area. In addition to traveling her hobbies of sewing, reading, and working on her computer were sources of endless pleasure and learning.

A devoted mother, Shirley's legacy lives on through her children: her son, Dennis Rau, and her daughter, Jeanne (Paul Jimenez) Jennings-Jimenez. Her love and teachings are further reflected in the lives of her cherished grandchildren, Ashley (Kevin) Blaha, Lindsey Miller, Daniel Jennings, and Julie Quackenbush, and her adored great-granddaughter, Aubrey Blaha. Shirley's sister, Donna Diedrich, her sister-in-law Arlene Rau, and her friends, Janet Kornowski, Mary Freiburger, Judy Schneider, Michele Jaeger also feel the profound loss of her passing.

Shirley M. Rau's life was a testament to her faith-filled spirit, her loving heart, and her intelligent mind. She will be deeply missed, but the brilliance of her life's work and the warmth of her love will continue to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Max A. Sass MISSION HILLS CHAPEL (8910 W. Drexel Ave Franklin) from 11:00 AM until the hour of service at 11:30 AM. Luncheon to follow at Michealangelo’s Pizza (8330 Puetz Rd. Franklin). Burial will take place on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Holton Cemetery (3305 Boss Rd, Abbotsford, Wisconsin 54405) at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rescue Mission or to St. Stephen the Martyr Lutheran Church in Greendale, Wisconsin.