In Loving Memory of Shirley A. Suchanek

In Loving Memory of Shirley A. Suchanek
September 10, 1932 – August 1, 2025

It is with heartfelt sadness and reverence that we announce the passing of Shirley A. Suchanek, 92, of Grand Island, Nebraska. Shirley departed this life peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, surrounded by love at Bickford Cottage, a place where she spent her final days with grace, dignity, and the tender care of those who cherished her.

A private memorial service honoring Shirley’s remarkable life will be held at Apfel Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest at Westlawn Memorial Cemetery in a serene and intimate family gathering. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to them, to be designated at a later date in Shirley’s memory.

Shirley was born on September 10, 1932, and grew up in the heart of Nebraska, where the values of kindness, humility, hard work, and family were deeply instilled in her. Throughout her long and meaningful life, Shirley was a shining example of warmth, strength, and quiet perseverance. Her spirit left a profound imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Shirley’s legacy will be forever woven into the fabric of those she loved. She was a woman of deep compassion and unwavering loyalty, known for her warm smile, keen wit, and comforting presence. Whether offering words of wisdom, preparing a favorite family dish, or quietly listening without judgment, Shirley had a unique way of making everyone feel at home.

Shirley married the love of her life and together they built a strong, enduring union that weathered life’s many joys and challenges. Family was the cornerstone of her existence. Her children remember her as their guiding light—always offering unconditional love, sound advice, and a safe haven. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored her stories, treasured her hugs, and learned from the quiet strength she embodied.

Throughout her life, Shirley was active in her community and faith. She contributed her time and heart to local organizations and believed in the power of small acts of kindness. In her quieter moments, she found joy in gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with her loved ones. Each holiday and birthday celebrated with Shirley was a memory carefully made and lovingly kept.

Though the world feels dimmer without her physical presence, Shirley’s life will continue to shine brightly through the values she lived by and the many lives she touched. She taught us all what it means to love deeply, to persevere quietly, and to give generously—without ever expecting anything in return.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Bickford Cottage for their devoted care and support during Shirley’s final chapter. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

A full obituary will follow in the coming days to further commemorate Shirley’s life and share more details about her journey and legacy. In the meantime, the family asks for privacy as they navigate this time of sorrow and remembrance.

May Shirley A. Suchanek rest in eternal peace, reunited with those who passed before her, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.