Republic - Shirley Ann Setala, age 84, a long-time Republic resident, went to be with her Lord on Christmas Day, 2015 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming where she had resided for the past year and a half. She had been in the loving care of her family, the staff at the Facility and U.P. Home Health and Hospice.

Shirley was born on September 15, 1931 in Ishpeming, the daughter of the late John and Senja (Hakala) Walline. Her mother had passed away when she was only 2 years old. She spent some of her childhood years in Alpha, prior to moving back to Ishpeming. She graduated with Honors from the Ishpeming High School Class of 1950. She married Eric Setala on April 25, 1953 in Republic (with Eric's father, Pastor Setala, performing the ceremony). Shirley held many jobs during her lifetime, including as a telephone operator, a waitress at the Venice Supper Club, an insurance agent at a company in Ishpeming, a clerk at a clothing store in North Republic, and as a clerk at the IGA in South Republic.

Shirley was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic, a place that provided her with comfort and strength. She had a lovely singing voice. Her quiet faith was admired by those close to her. She was a devoted wife and mother, always putting her family in front of her own wishes and desires. She never had a bitter word to say about anyone. She was an expert knitter and cook (ask her family).

Survivors include her loving husband of 62 years, Eric, currently of Ishpeming, son Michael (Mildred) Setala of Jacksonville, Florida, daughters Judy Setala of Chicago, and Kristine Setala of Marquette, a half-sister Helen Kakkuri of Ishpeming. She was preceded in death by her parents, along with her step-mother Walpuri "Vappu" Walline, and a much loved brother, Marvin.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 1-2pm on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015 at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. Funeral services will follow at 2:00pm, with the Rev. Kevin Kaiser officiating. Interment will take place at the Republic Cemetery. A luncheon will follow the service in the church hall.

Shirley's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be found here .