Shirley A. Rau

Shirley Rau, age 79 of West Branch passed away Tuesday July 19, 2011 with her family by her side. Shirley was born in West Branch on June 29, 1932 to Russell and Gertrude Schubert. She married Gerald Rau on June 16, 1951. Gerald and Shirley farmed in Edwards Township until 1987 with their two daughters and son. Shirley enjoyed her grandchildren, playing cards with her friends, going to the casino, and watching Wheel of Fortune. She baked chocolate chip cookies for her grandkids which they loved. Shirley is survived by her daughters, Julie Rau of Ithaca and Jeri (Sam) Orlando of West Branch. She is also survived by her grandchildren Shannon Orlando, Samuel Orlando, Rebecca Rau and Emily Rau. Also surviving is her sister, Marilyn (Tom) Bydalek, brothers, Dean (Shirley) Schubert and Ron (Nancy) Schubert, sisters in law Maxine (Adrian) Dantzer and Kathleen (Bernard) Groulx and her brother in law Robert (Lyla) Rau. Shirley is also survived by many nieces and nephews who spent time with Shirley and Gerald at the farm. Also her grand-dog Rusty. Shirley has joined her husband Gerald and son Tim in eternal life. Visitation at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Friday July 22, 2011 from 1-9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. On Saturday, Shirley will lie in state at St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch beginning at 12:30 p.m. until the Celebration of Life at 1:30 p.m. Fr. Richard Seifferly will officiate with burial following at St. Joseph Cemetery, West Branch. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Joseph School.