Shirlee Ann (Morgenstern) Vandegrift, born May 20, 1935, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away on June 19, 2024 in Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Shirlee, a figure of unwavering faith and kindness touched all who knew her with her quick wit and tender heart.

Shirlee's legacy is lovingly cherished by her devoted family, daughter Susan Proctor and husband Terry Proctor of Temple, TX, daughter Anne Sepanski and husband Corey Sepanski of Kenosha, WI, son David Vandegrift of Greenfield, WI, son Tom Schimmels of Temple, TX; brother Gary Morgenstern and wife, Deb, of Hartford, WI. She leaves behind six grandchildren: Kristin Hall Riola, Bryce Hall, Logan Bitz, Allison Bitz, Sarah Proctor, and David Proctor; and four great-grandchildren. Shirlee was preceded in death by daughter Mary Vandegrift Hall.

Shirlee began her career at Wisconsin Bell in Milwaukee, WI, and after also working in education and banking, eventually returned to and retired from Wisconsin Bell in 1994.

Shirlee had a lifelong gift for sewing, needlework and knitting, which led to her donation of nearly 100 infant sweaters in her later years. Fascinated by words and language, she never missed the daily crossword puzzle and loved a good game of Scrabble.

Shirlee was happiest serving on the Elmbrook Church Volunteer Staff, Brookfield, WI, in several roles, most notably Highlands Prayer Group Leader, Friday Fellowship Leader, and author of the book A Month of Sundays: A Devotional published in 2010. Shirlee was recognized as a joyful, authentic, generous mentor and friend to all those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Telling the Truth Ministries, Brookfield, WI or Catholic Charities Milwaukee Area c/o Adoption Services.

Services to be held:

Elmbrook Church Chapel
777 S Barker Road
Brookfield, WI 53045

Friday, August 2, 2024
1:30 - 2:30 Service
12:30 -1:30 Visitation