Shirley Jean McCoy, 80, of Tomah passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009.
She was born Jan. 13, 1929, to Louie and Mathilda (Gehrke) Behrens in Tunnel City, Wis.
Shirley was united in marriage to Stuart C. McCoy on Oct. 16, 1948, in Sparta. Together they farmed for many years in Ridgeville, where they raised five children. Shirley also worked for and retired from the Department of Army at Fort McCoy.
When Shirley wasn’t at work, she enjoyed playing word and card games with her family, doing crossword puzzles, and traveling. She was particularly passionate about playing duplicate bridge. Shirley was an ardent Brett Favre, Packer and Badger fan. Her family loved anything that she cooked for them. Her chocolate birthday “ring” cakes were especially appreciated. Shirley loved engaging in political discussions. Being so well read, she could debate with the best of them.
One of her favorite sayings was, “Waste not, want not.” She was concerned about the environment, recycled everything, and was a wind energy proponent. Shirley’s faith was an important part of her life. She was a longtime member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church at Ridgeville.
She is survived by her children, Merilyn (Tom) Moses of Roswell, Ga., Claire (Jim Stoops) McCoy of Bloomington, Minn., Stuart (Holly) McCoy Jr. of Riverside, R.I., Kevin (Jenny) McCoy of Tomah, and Julie McCoy of Platteville, Wis.; eight grandchildren, Katie and Jean Moses, Ryan and Andrew McCoy, Lawrence David Sturgill III, Molly (Dustin) Powell, Emily McCoy and Luke McCoy; a great-grandchild, Kayla; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Louie and Mathilda; her husband, Stuart; a granddaughter, Amy Sturgill; and two sisters, Vila Wallace and Luella Habelman.
Funeral services will were Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Torkelson Funeral Home. Pastor William Rice officiated. Burial followed in Mount Vernon Cemetery, Tomah.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Compassionate Friends, Platteville Chapter, c/o Bonnie Vaassen, 1170 Westhill Ave., Platteville, WI 53818, or the Arbor Day Foundation (www.arborday.org).
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
