Shirley Maxine Bauguess

Shirley was born on January 6, 1937, in Penokee, Kansas, to Jay and Goldie Kachel. Shirley was the youngest of 4. Her siblings were Harold, Elaine, and Gerald (Duane). Shirley graduated from high school in Hill City, Kansas in 1954.

On November 14th, 1956, she married John Bauguess Jr. in Denver, Colorado. They lived and worked in Denver for a few years and then moved back to Kansas. Together they built a life centered on family, fun, hard work, and wheat farming. Shirley was a lifelong farmer who especially loved caring for her milk cows. She also had a special place in her heart for animals and enjoyed the companionship of many beloved dogs and cats throughout her life.

Although she lived in several places over the years, including Montrose, Colorado, her farm near Densmore, Kansas, was always "home" in her heart. In 2007, she made her home in Valley Center, Kansas, and then the Newton area, where she spent the remaining years of her life.

Shirley lived life to the fullest. She was an avid sports fan and loved watching University of Kansas basketball and Chiefs football. Above all else, Shirley loved her family. Nothing brought her more joy than hearing about the lives and accomplishments of her grandchildren, Katie, Ethan, and Wyatt. She was immensely proud of each of them and treasured every update, story, and visit.

Shirley was known for her kindness, generosity, and caring nature. During harvest, she would bring fried chicken, potato salad, and iced tea out to the wheat fields. Her meals were eagerly anticipated and remembered just as fondly as the warmth and friendship she shared with everyone around her.

She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, friend, and a woman whose quiet strength touched all who knew her. Her warmth, compassion, and willingness to care for others will be remembered long after her passing.

Shirley is survived by her family, Sidney (Sid) and Leslie Bauguess and Steven and Micki Bauguess; her grandchildren, Katie Bauguess and fiancé Tim Kortebien, Ethan and Katelyn Bauguess, and Wyatt Bauguess; and many extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Bauguess Jr.; her parents, Jay and Goldie Kachel; and her siblings and their spouses Harold and Velma Kachel, Art and Elaine Wudtke, and Duane and Lynn Kachel.

The family finds comfort in the many memories they shared with Shirley and in the lasting example of love, hard work, generosity, and devotion she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life and Fellowship will be held at the Graham County Community Center on Saturday, October 3rd, at 11:00 AM, located at 700 W Main St., Hill City, Kansas.