Shirley Ann Voelkel, age 84, of Nordheim, Texas passed away on, 20th of June 2026. She was born July 29, 1941, at her parent’s home, in Dewitt County, Texas to Whitmore Forrest Voelkel and Agnes Bernice Rohan Voelkel.
In her early years, Shirley found joy in being a homemaker and a talented seamstress. She worked with integrity, kindness, and a natural ability to connect with others. She especially loved creating clothing adorned with redbirds and hummingbirds, and she took pride in custom-tailoring outfits for friends and family in the community.
As her children grew older, Shirley expanded her work outside the home. She spent time at Pyron’s in Runge before beginning a 17‑year career as a meat cutter/cashier at H‑E‑B in Kenedy. She retired after receiving a life‑changing kidney transplant from her loving brother, Gordon—a gift she treasured deeply.
Shirley also enjoyed taking gambling trips with local friends, always eager to meet new people, share stories, and bring laughter to those around her. Her warmth, openness, and ability to make friends wherever she went were among her most enduring qualities.
Shirley’s life was defined by love—love for her family, her friends, her work, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful. She will be remembered for her generosity, her resilience, and the way she made every person she met feel valued.
Shirley is survived by her beloved companion, Robert “Bobby” Waskow. She took great pride in being a devoted homemaker for Bobby, creating a home filled with care, warmth, and unwavering support. Before joining her life with Bobby, she was previously married to EV Caruthers and James “Frog” Audilet.
Family was the center of Shirley’s world. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Roy Caruthers; her daughters, JoAnn Trippodo and Sherry Keese. Shirley’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: James Zengerle, Jeffrey Zengerle, Danny Keese, Ann Keese, Diana Keese, Kyle Caruthers, Alex Caruthers, Joshua Caruthers, Tiffany Hilbrich Ruona, and Troy Hilbrich.
She is also preceded in death by her parents, daughter Kay Hilbrich, brothers Forrest Voelkel, Jimmy Voelkel, Gordon Voelkel, and Franklin Voelkel, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Memorial Service will be on July 11, 2026 at Massey Funeral Home
Visitation: 10:00 – 11:00
Services: 11:00 – 12:00
Celebration of Life (after services):
Aunt Di’s Kountry Kitchen
606 E Main St, Yorktown, TX 78164
Gobble Gobble! We can’t wait to see all you fine folks there. Let’s celebrate community, music, and the spirit of Cuero. Bring your friends, your family, and your best turkey dance moves!
