Shirley Schultz

Shirley Schultz, age 91, of Milbank, SD, passed away on August 29, 2024. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at American Lutheran Church in Milbank. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Milbank City Cemetery.

Shirley Mae (Dittes) Schultz was born on March 18, 1933, at home in Roberts County, SD, to John and Emma (Gommer) Dittes. She grew up on the family farm and attended school in Milbank graduating with the Class of 1951.

On Christmas Day of 1951, Shirley was united in marriage with Donald Robert Schultz. Together, they were blessed with four children.

Shirley embarked on a career at Dakota State Bank in 1957 as a teller before transitioning to the insurance agency within the bank. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family life, she pursued her Insurance Agent’s License. She became the first woman to serve on the bank’s Board of Directors. Even as the agency relocated, Shirley remained a dedicated employee until her well-deserved retirement at the age of 70.

In her retirement years, Shirley indulged her passion for quilting, crafting intricate masterpieces that adorned the homes of her loved ones. She found joy in participating in various guilds, including the church quilt guild and the local Piecemakers Quilt Guild. Her quilts, especially those custom-made for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, bear testimony to her talent and love.

Shirley enjoyed spending time with her Red Hat Group, engaging in activities and adventures until she was the last surviving member. Her interests in the Hallmark Channel, game shows like Wheel of Fortune, and various PBS programs reflected her diverse tastes. Her subtle sense of humor and wisdom, marked by her knack for one-liners, endeared her to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy woven with threads of kindness, generosity, resilience, and gentle discipline. She was a guiding light, teaching invaluable life lessons through her actions and shaping the lives of those around her. Her family was the focal point of her life, and she worked tirelessly to keep them united.

Left to cherish Shirley’s memory are her daughters: Ann Loeschke, Nancy Pauli, and Cynthia (Lee) Schumacher; daughter-in-law, Dawn Schultz; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; one step-grandson; one step-great-grandson; one step-great-great-grandson; brother, Donald (Janette) Dittes; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don; son, Richard; sons-in-law: Michael Pauli, and Roger Loeschke; and brother, Virgil (Evelyn) Dittes.