Shirley E. Barbaza

Beloved wife of the late Nicholas. Loving mother of Gary (Beth), Greg (Patricia), Gail (Patrick) McNally and Gloria Mrozek. Cherished grandmother of Carey (Marc) Duvall, Bradley (Melanie) Barbaza, Steven (Kristina) Barbaza, Brian McNally, Jacqueline (Mark) Oliver, Colin McNally and Katherine Mrozek. Great grandmother of Nikolai, Marco, Genevieve, Ethan, Amelia and River Marie. Dear sister of Betty White, and the late Robert and Richard Desentz.

Shirley's family came from Berlin and settled in Detroit. She married the love her life Nicholas at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Detroit. She served faithfully on the altar guild for many years. Shirley and Nicholas lived happily in the home they built in Dearborn for over 60 years. Together they raised their family enjoying summers up north at the lake and spending time fishing and boating. Especially on the boat named B Haven. Shirley and Nicholas were always there when their children needed them but also gave them room to learn and grow. When Shirley lost Nicholas, it was then her true strength came out. She has to learn to drive and continued to care for her home and family. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed Pralines and Cream ice cream as well as Saunders's Hot Fudge Sundae's. She had enjoyed her dedication to tending to her flower beds and flower boxes; growing many beautiful varieties of blooms. One of her favorite flowers were her peonies that were brought into the family in the 1900's and after a few transplants, grow in her daughter's yard today. Shirley loved her family and lit up when visiting with grandchildren and great grandchildren. She kept busy with her hobby of golf and enjoyed laughing with family and friends. her family is blessed to have had such wonderful parents and take comfort knowing Shirley and Nicholas are together again.

Visitation Friday May 31st, 4-8 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home 37000 Six Mile Rd. in Livonia. Funeral service Saturday June 1st at 10:30 am at the funeral home. Shirley will be laid to rest at Glen Eden Lutheran Park Cemetery in Livonia.

Memorial contributions appreciated to Penrickton Center for the Blind or to Hospice of Michigan.