Shirley Jean Grottke, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026. Born on January 2, 1937, in Dearborn, Michigan, Shirley lived a life defined by her unwavering faith, deep love for her family, and devotion to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Above all else, Shirley loved Jesus. Her faith was not simply something she professed; it was the foundation upon which she built her life. For more than 60 years, she was a faithful member of Bethel Christian Assembly of God, where she joyfully served in the church choir. Her greatest desire was to share the love of God with those around her, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She planted seeds of faith in their hearts through her words, her prayers, and, most importantly, the way she lived her life. Her love for Jesus was her greatest legacy, one that will continue through the generations of her family.
After graduating from Beavercreek High School, Shirley began her working career at Standard Register. In 1969, she joined her husband, John, in establishing Johnny’s Carpet Cleaning, helping build a family business through years of hard work, dedication, and partnership.
Shirley’s greatest earthly blessings were her family. She is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, John Grottke; her daughter, Deborah (Brian) Schafer; her son, Christopher (Andrea) Grottke; and her cherished grandchildren, Courtney Grottke, Lauren (Michael) Berry, Cody (Lindsay) Grottke, and Kalie (Caleb) Helfinstine. She also leaves behind five precious great-grandchildren, Olivia Grottke, Ellie Grottke, Jameson Helfinstine, Everly Helfinstine, and Sophie Berry, each of whom brought her tremendous joy.
She was preceded in death by her father, Hank Hodson; her mother, Flora Hodson; and her sister, Beverly Dominguez.
While her family grieves the loss of her earthly presence, they find comfort in the promises of God and the assurance of their faith. We rejoice in knowing that the Lord Shirley loved so dearly has welcomed her home.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Traditions of Beavercreek and Crossroads Hospice for the compassionate care and kindness they provided to Shirley.
