Shirley L. Truhn

Shirley L. Truhn, 91, of St. Joseph, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Caretel Inns of St. Joseph.

Born on October 10, 1934, in Benton Harbor to George and Julianna Truhn, Shirley graduated from Benton Harbor High School in the Class of 1952. She went on to earn her RN degree from Walther Memorial Hospital in Chicago and spent many years working as a registered nurse in private practice for area physicians, including Dr. Hayes, Dr. Hills, Dr. Rock, and finally retiring from Dr. Smalley’s office. She remained a trusted medical advisor to her family throughout her life.

A longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, Shirley was actively involved in the congregation. She sang in the choir, served on the Altar Guild, and faithfully attended Thursday morning Bible class and the monthly SAGES group. In her leisure time, she found joy in creating stained-glass artwork and sterling silver jewelry, showing her English sheepdogs, and especially cherished moments spent with her family at George and Norma’s cabin on Gravel Lake, where she loved fishing with her brother.

Shirley is survived by her sister-in-law, Norma Truhn of St. Joseph; nieces and nephews Michael Truhn, Cheryl Demis, Jeffrey Truhn, and Julie (Brent) Engel; and several great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Lila, Lorraine, and George Truhn Jr.; and nephew Curtis Truhn.