Shirley Branta Obituary

Shirley Pasche Branta, formerly of Downers Grove, Illinois, died September 21, 2011, in Haslett, Michigan. Shirley, 93, was born July 13, 1918, in Chicago, Illinois, to Herman and Amanda Pasche. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Shirley attended Northwestern University, where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She loved all forms of music and was a concert pianist as a young adult. She also loved to travel nationally and internationally. For 23 years, Shirley volunteered at Hinsdale Hospital, Hinsdale, Illinois. She enjoyed following the achievements of her grandchildren and watching them mature into accomplished young adults. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, John W. Branta. She is survived by her children, Ann (Rick) Mueller of Burr Ridge, Illinois, and Jack (Crystal) Branta of Okemos, Michigan; and her grandchildren, Jennifer and Kate Mueller, and Jason, Jeffrey (Chloe), and Scott Branta. A memorial service will be held Friday, October 7, 2011, at 3:00 p.m. at Peoples Church, 200 West Grand River, East Lansing, Michigan. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. On Saturday, October 8, 2011, at 1:00 p.m., a service for family and friends will be held at the chapel at the Clarendon Hills Cemetery, Darien, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Shirley's memory may be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 3100 West Road, Building 1, Suite 100, East Lansing, Michigan 48823; Peoples Church, 200 West Grand River, East Lansing, Michigan 48823; or St. Andrew's Church, 1125 Franklin Street, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515. Online condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com.