Shirley Van Rhee

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Shirley Yvonne Van Rhee, age 94, of Richland, Michigan, on January 15, 2026. Born in Oshtemo, Michigan, to Otto and Evelyn Haylett. Shirley dedicated her professional life to the care of others. A graduate of Central Michigan University, she served as a Registered Nurse and Occupational Health Nurse, beginning her career at the VA Medical Center before moving to Allied Paper Company and eventually retiring from The UpJohn Company (Pfizer).

Outside of her professional achievements, Shirley’s heart belonged to the water. She devoted decades of service to the United States Power Squadron, contributing both locally and nationally to promote boating safety. Alongside her husband, Gene, she traveled the country’s waterways, sharing her expertise through teaching and performing Vessel Safety Checks to ensure the well-being of fellow boaters.

In the winter months, Shirley traded the helm for handlebars, often found "leading the pack" on snowmobile trips with friends and family at their northern home. Later in life, she and Gene enjoyed the warmer breezes of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, during the winter season. At home, Shirley found peace in her flower garden, joy in a delightful book, and was a talented baker. Nothing brought a quicker smile to her face than a fresh bouquet of flowers and a spirited conversation about boating.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Gene; her sons, David, and Robert; and her siblings, Eleanor Marlink, Angeline Thompson, and James Haylett.

She will be deeply missed by her sisters, Diana Haskins and Carol McPherson, daughter Susan (Craig) Norrod, daughter in-law Susan (William) Grother, granddaughter Brittany (Tong) Mai, and great granddaughters Amelia and Evangeline.

Shirley will be remembered for her caring spirit, her adventurous soul, and the joy she found in her family, her friends, and her flowers.

A committal service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery on June 29, 2026, at 3:00 PM. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a gathering at the Blue Stem Restaurant in Augusta to share memories and celebrate Shirley’s life.

In honor of Shirley’s passion for safe boating, donations can be made to: United States Power Squadron 1504 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com