Shirley Mae DePew

Shirley Mae DePew, 96 of Battle Creek died Tuesday evening, November 19, 2025. She was born in Louisville, Kentucky on September 7, 1929, the daughter of Walter & Velma Dale. She lived in Kalamazoo for eleven years and graduated from Western State High School in 1946 (located on WMU’s eastern campus).

Shirley married Richard C. DePew in 1948 who died in 2006. She enjoyed having been born on Richard’s second birthday, and they celebrated their birthdays together for 57 years. Shirley worked for Associates Investment Co. for seven years and as school secretary at St. Philip Elementary School for 26 years.

Shirley is survived by her children, Wendy (Mark) Christoff, Eric (Laurie) DePew and Jon (Nan) DePew. Her daughter, Laura (David) Bradford died in 20222. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; her sister, Sherry Dale (William-deceased) Burke; her in-laws, Terry (Charlotte) DePew and Theresa DePew; and several nieces & nephews.

Shirley was a volunteer at St Philip School in the 60’s, and in retirement volunteered at the Burnham Brook Center. She enjoyed needlework and was an avid reader.

The Parish Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025 and a visitation will follow from 5:00-7:00 pm. at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 21, 2025 at the St. Philip Catholic Church. A private family entombment will take place at the Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to the St. Philip Catholic Church, would be appreciated. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Shirley may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.