Shirley J. Schwab's Obituary
Shirley J. Schwab was born on May 15, 1923 in Salem, Oregon to Arthur & Mary Barnes Schwab.
He died at a St. Helens nursing home on March 4, 2009 at the age of 85.
Shirley lived in Deer Island during his youth and graduated from St. Helens High School in May of 1941.
He entered the U.S. Army on October 21, 1942 and served until his discharge on February 14, 1946. He was a communication supply tech recieving the American Theater Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Victory Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
He retired from U.S. Gypsum Corporation after 35+ years. He served as production superintendant for the U.S.G. ceiling tile plant in Walworth, WI. and retired from U.S.G. research and development dept in Libertyville, Illinois.
Shirley married Dolores Hennessy on April 6, 1944 in Bartow, Florida. They were happily married for 49 years until her death on September 11, 1993. He married Betty Rushing on May 21, 1994 and enjoyed 14 years of marriage.
He was a member of the Elks Club and a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge and a member of the Shrine. A member of the First Christian Church.
Shirley loved gardening, there wasn't anything he couldn't get to grow. His flower and vegetable gardens were artistic wonders.
He loved to travel and managed to visit Europe, Australia, Mexico, the Caribbean and most every state. He also enjoyed many adventures with the Hayrider R.V. group.
He returned to his roots in Oregon after his retirement to enjoy the company of family and friends from his high school days.
Survivors include: Wife; Betty Rushing Schwab of St. Helens; Daughters & spouses: Sharon Dee & Gene McCullough of Ballwin, MO.; Janice & Albert Exenberger of Neenah, WI.; Son: Arthur Schwab of Santa Rosa Beach, FL.; Granddaughter: Theresa Exenberger of Chanhassen, MN.; Stepchildren & spouses: Carol & Marty Koch of Scappoose, OR.; Eugene & Christie Rushing of Sandy, OR.; preceded in death by his parents, siblings and wife.
Remembrance service: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 10:00 AM at First Christian Church-St. Helens
Private family committal service & niche inurnment: Bellcrest Memorial Cemetery-Salem, Oregon.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church.
on-line condolences may be made to the family at www.columbiafh.com
Columbia Funeral Home-Directors
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