Shirley Martens

Shirley Martens of Port Washington, formerly of Grafton, passed away at her residence Sunday morning, Sept. 29, 2024. She was 89 years old.

She was born on June 29, 1935, in Black River Falls, the daughter of LeRoy and Laura (nee Shankey) Brunson.

She graduated from Rufus King High School in 1953 and furthered her education by attending business school.

On Oct. 29, 1955, Shirley was united in marriage with Charles B. Martens at Holy Family Catholic Church in Whitefish Bay.

The couple settled briefly in Milwaukee and moved their family to Grafton in 1968. They later moved to Port Washington in 1998.

Charles preceded Shirley in death in 2003.

Shirley worked as a banker with Port Washington State Bank, retiring after 25 years.

She was a faithful and active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Grafton, helping with altar and baptism preparation, funeral hospitality and the St. Vincent de Paul ministry, as well as teaching Sunday school.

Shirley had many hobbies, some of which include playing sheepshead and other card games, traveling — Jamaica being a favorite destination — and especially spending quality time with her family over dinner.

Shirley is survived by her children Kathleen (Jeff) MacDonald and Paul (Lori) Martens, as well as five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two  great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Martens was preceded in death by her husband, their infant daughter Patricia, their son Billy, granddaughter Christina, brother Ken (the late Marilyn) Brunson and sister Dorothy (the late Harvey) Rogers.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1619 Washington St., Grafton. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the Mass begins at noon.

Shirley will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. Joseph Cemetery in Grafton later that day.

Memorials are suggested in lieu of flowers to St. Joseph Catholic Church or the St. Vincent De Paul Society.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.