Shirley Simmelink, 92, passed away on September 1, 2024, in Beloit, Kansas, at the Resident Care Center, where she had lived for the past 10 and a half years and received wonderful care from many loving staff members. Shirley was born near Jewell, Kansas, to Vic and Mary Tullar on June 24, 1932. She attended Star Hill, a one-room schoolhouse, for the early years of her education. Shirley graduated from Jewell High School with the Class of 1950.
On November 11, 1951, Shirley married Don Simmelink. They briefly lived in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where Shirley worked at a dry cleaners. They later returned to Ionia, Kansas, to begin farming. In 1958, they moved to Jewell to continue their farming life.
Shirley was known for her kindness, hospitality, and love of family, along with her talent for good home cooking. She had a special fondness for children and found great joy in their company. Later in life, she cherished taking buggy rides with Don by her side. Shirley enjoyed being an active part of the community. She was often seen along the parade route during the Jewell Corn Show, attending Christmas pageants, and volunteering as a driver for Meals on Wheels. A devoted member of the Methodist Church and United Methodist Women, Shirley's deep love for Jesus was evident to all who knew her.
Shirley is survived by three children: Donna (Charlie) Reed of Cheyenne, Wyoming; Dale Simmelink of Ionia, Kansas; and Dee (Curtis) Shamburg of Portis, Kansas; her two sisters: Myrth McDonald of Victoria, Texas, and Marilyn Griest of the Resident Care Center in Beloit, Kansas; as well as 15 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Vic and Mary Tullar; her husband, Don Simmelink; brother Vaughn Tullar; grandson Joshua Simmelink; and great-grandson Max Potter.
Funeral Services were Wednesday September 4, 2024 at the Jewell Community Center, Jewell, KS at 2:00pm. The burial will follow at Jewell City Cemetery, Jewell, KS.
The family suggests Memorials to the Jewell Trinity Methodist Church or to the Mitchell County Hospital Health Systems Resident Care Center.
For online condolences, please visit kleppingerfuneralhome.com.