Shirley Louise Erthum Beaver, our mother, 85, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024. Born in Geneva, Nebraska, she was raised on a farm and was the youngest of four sisters. There, she learned the value of hard work and was always quick to correct Dad’s tales of a tough upbringing.
In 1955, Mom won the Brunette Division Fillmore County Beauty Contest and later became the head majorette of Geneva High School. On August 3, 1957, she married the love of her life, Jim Beaver, from York, Nebraska. They honeymooned in Florida and soon after made their home in the town of Frostproof, Florida, where they lived for 40 years.
Mom and Dad welcomed eight children into the world, providing strong family values and teaching life lessons along the way. Mom was a Husker through and through, and on game days, you could bet she would be singing the Husker fight song with Dad as she danced and twirled her baton.
Mom’s fried chicken was a favorite, and she loved cooking for everyone. Her laughter and smile were infectious, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Mom had many interests and talents; she enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing cards, and putting puzzles together, always claiming the edge pieces. Camping at Arbuckle and spending time at the lake were cherished family pastimes that created memories we will forever hold dear. Most of all, Mom loved dancing with Dad, and their love inspired us all.
Mom leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and joy that so many will forever cherish. She is survived by her sister, Jean Erthum; her children, Bruce, Shelly, Jenny (Conley), Jamie, Chuck (DeeDee), John (Cathy); her grandchildren: Brad (Kathryn), Matt, Casey (Robert), Haley (Ron), Jenna (James), Nikki (Doug), Trey, Chaz, Jayma (Logan), McKenzie, Tara, and 13 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Al and Fay Erthum, her daughter Rachelle, her son Nick, her husband, James Beaver, and her sisters Dorothy Gruenemeier and Carol Bagby.
Mom’s light will continue to guide us, and her love will forever be in our hearts. We will miss her dearly, but we take comfort in knowing Mom is in Heaven dancing with Dad once again.
All are welcome to the memorial service, which will take place at Marion Nelson Funeral Home, 454 South Buck Moore Rd, Lake Wales, FL 33853. The service will be Sunday April 21, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.
