Shirley M. Kraft
Kraft, Shirley M., (Willette) 88, of Perry, Ohio passed away August 28, 2022. She was born in Presque Isle, Maine on Jan. 25, 1934, the daughter of Dennis and Clara (Tardy) Willette. She is predeceased by her husband Ralph and siblings Walter (Mary) Willette, Margaret Willette, Lawrence (Joyce) Willette, Earl (Pauline) Willette, Lenwood (Pauline) Willette, and Doris (Philip) Dorety. She is survived by her sister Rita Gibbs/Corradin, and her brother Paul (Kathy), (Edith, late) Willett. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Shirley was known for her gentle nature, generosity, selflessness, caring and nurturing character, her quick sense of humor, being a great audience, always an encourager and a head-turning overcomer. Shirley always had a beautiful smile and hug for everyone. She and her late husband Ralph sponsored her brother Paul Willett’s late wife Edith’s immigration from Newfoundland. Shirley also provided loving, end-of-life care for her son-in-law, Pat’s mom. Shirley was a member of Tri-County Bible Church in Madison, Ohio. She loved Sunday school and weekly homegroup bible study. She was recently baptized in the North Perry Village Pool. Shirley raised her 5 children in Willoughby, Ohio. In her later years she was a private healthcare aid until she was 70. In the last year and a half, she enjoyed respite in Jim and Tammy Kraft’s home. Here she would comment on the privilege she now had to read the Bible (all day if she wanted), read books on faith, watch incredible bible preachers, enjoy nature and watching the birds out the back patio, and visiting with family and friends. Shirley is survived by her children; Wayne Kraft, Susan (Patrick) Holmes, James (Tamara) Kraft, Virginia Heleen and Jane (Richard) Smith and grandchildren Bryan Holmes, Lynnea Kraft, Jared Kraft, Michael Smith, and Trisha Smith. Local nieces and nephews include: Dan (Joye) Willett, Paula (Gary) Mesojedec, Chris Willett, Cindy (Andy) Hohenbrink, Joe (Elaine) Willett. Dave (Marlene) Kraft, Chris (Kathy) Kraft, Steve (Dory) Kraft among others.
Private services will be held.