Shirley Elizabeth Dresnek

Wasilla resident Shirley Elizabeth Dresnek, 87, passed away peacefully March 28, 2013, surrounded by loved ones.

A funeral Mass is at 11 a.m., April 3 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wasilla, with Father Scott Garrett officiating. A Celebration of Life reception immediately follows the Mass.

Shirley was born March 5, 1926, at home in Winooski, Vt. She and her family eventually settled in Cleveland, Ohio, where she met the love of her life when she 13 years old.

She saw the tall, good-looking middle son and knew immediately that this was the man she would marry. Her mother told her she was a “silly girl.”

She and the middle son, Leo Dresnek, were married five years later on May 5, 1945. They celebrated 66 years of marriage together. Shirley had the most unwavering faith in her religion and firmly believed in eternal life.

Shirley is survived by a brother, Donald C. Barron of Traverse City, Mich.; and her daughters, Shirley Smith, Marty Nekeferoff, Meri Stewart, Irene Kemp and Nancy (Craig) Henrionnet. She is also survived by her sons, David (Jean) Dresnek, Michael (Marilyn) Dresnek, Steve Dresnek, Leo Dresnek and John (Kathleen) Dresnek. “Grandma Shirley” leaves a legacy of love to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Dresnek Sr.; her parents, Irene and David Barron; two brothers, Sanford and Roger; and four sisters, Ruth, Betty, Rita and Carol.

The family would like to thank the staff (you know who you are) at Primrose Retirement Community of Wasilla for their constant support, love, hugs, words of encouragement, direction and the care that they gave our Mom and Grandma. You became part of our family!

Valley Funeral home and Crematory of Wasilla cared for the family.