Shirley Marie Rauch

Shirley Marie Rauch (1935 - 2023)

Shirley Marie Rauch, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and pillar of the Grayling community, passed away on September 22, 2023, at the age of 88.

Born on February 27, 1935, in Grayling, MI, Shirley was the daughter of the late Matilda Ziebell and Joseph Gildner. On August 24th 1956, she married her best friend, Wilbur Gene Rauch, and together they celebrated 67 years of unwavering love and partnership.

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Wilbur Gene Rauch; her loving children, Daughter Lillian Mol, and Daughter Karyn Rauch-Smock, as well as a cherished Son-In-Law, Joe Smock, who she always saw as her own son. Shirley's legacy further thrives in her adored grandchildren: Kristi Pitris (Vince), Matt Mol, Nick Smock, Hannah Smock, and her great-grandson, Aiden Pitris. Her sense of family extended beyond immediate ties, embracing nieces, nephews and dear friends. 

She is reunited in rest with her parents, siblings Lillian, Marilyn, Robert, Richard, and William. Also welcoming her are her treasured cousins, whom she fondly and playfully referred to as the "Powder Puffs" (Lillian, Diane, Shirley) and the "Greasy Spoons" (Phyllis, Marilyn, and Yvonne).

From her days as a top graduate of Grayling High School to her esteemed role as a bank auditor at Grayling State Bank, Shirley exemplified determination and commitment. Her venture into AFLAC insurance post-retirement reflected her unyielding desire to assist others. A beacon of faith, Shirley's devotion was evident in her 70-year membership at the Michelson Memorial Church, where she not only attended but also actively participated in and organized numerous events. Shirely was a social butterfly and never missed time with her Monday lunch group or card club. One of Shirley’s favorite places was the cottage on Lake Margrethe where she enjoyed time with her family and friends.

The world is a little dimmer without Shirley, but her legacy remains a beacon of hope, love, and community spirit for all who had the privilege to know her.

Visitation will be held at Michelson Memorial Church in Grayling, MI on Friday, September 29 from 10:00am -12:00pm. The funeral will begin at 12:00pm, followed by the burial at Elmwood Cemetery and concluding with a luncheon in the church hall.

Anyone wishing to make a memorial may consider Crawford AuSable Excellence in Education Foundation (CAEEF) 1135 N. Old US 27, Grayling, MI 49738 to benefit the students of Crawford AuSable Schools or Michelson Memorial Methodist Church, 400 Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI 49738.

Arrangements entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.