Shirley R. Funk

Shirley R. Funk

September 30, 1944 - November 16, 2024

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Obituary

MADISON - Rev. Shirley Ann Rakacs Funk, age 80, passed away from Alzheimer's on November 16, 2024, in Madison, Wis., just past her 80th birthday. Born on September 30, 1944, Shirley grew up in Cranford, N.J., where she attended high school. She furthered her education at Westminster College and Princeton Theological Seminary, paving the way for her lifelong dedication to her faith and community.


Shirley was an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA), where she devoted her career to spiritual leadership and community service. She spent most of her career and time raising her family in Madison, Wis. After her retirement and subsequent divorce, she relocated to Bainbridge Island, Wash. There, she immersed herself in local culture, enjoying activities such as singing in choirs, attending various concerts and events in Seattle, and going on road trips across the Pacific Northwest with family and friends. Her daughter, Joti Chandra, was her dedicated caretaker for the last 7 1/2 years.


Shirley is survived by her sister, Patricia (Rakacs) Remine of Shelton, Wash.; her son, Adam D. Funk of Seattle, Wash.; and her daughter, Joti Chandra Kaur (formerly Elizabeth A. Funk) of New Glarus, Wis. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Susan Rakacs; and her former husband, John D. Funk.


In recognition of her contributions and dedication, Shirley's life will be commemorated through a virtual memorial at shirley-funk.forevermissed.com <http://shirley-funk.forevermissed.com>. She will also have a gravestone at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison, Wis.

 

In lieu of traditional services, those wishing to honor Shirley's memory are encouraged to make contributions to Westminster College, Princeton Theological Seminary, or the Presbyterian Church (USA) Foundation, supporting the institutions that shaped her life and career.


The family would like to thank the green blanket staff for so lovingly caring for Shirley.

Go in Peace. Serve the Lord. Thanks be to God.


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420


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Shirley
A
Ann
Other •
I send warm and deeply sincere ((hugs)) to Shirley’s family….especially Joti, whom I was honored to meet near the end of Shirley’s life. I sensed such love and peace with the two of you: what a beautiful example of grace between a mom and a daughter. It was my great honor to share time with the two of you. What a blessing! Ann
LJ
Lori Johnson
Other •
All these years, I thought it was Rev. Fink. You learn something new everyday. Beautiful soul! Fly high Rev. Funk!
BO
Betty Overland
Other •
I send my love and condolences to Adam and Joti Chandra. Your mother was an incredible lady. I was fortunate to meet all of you at Stephens Elementary where you all became so dear to me. One of my last memories of your dear mother was when my husband and I were invited to dinner at your home. Mr. Yakamura, a guest visitor for a few weeks at Stephens as a goodwill ambassador from Japan, was also there along with you two kids. Your mom was warm, welcoming, and enthusiastically behind the two of you. Her love for you was always forefront in her life. Her faith made her strong and she was able to extend that comforting hand to others. She lead a meaningful life and generously graced us with her love. Joti Chandra, (my adorable little Elizabeth), I express my admiration for the patient, generous, and gentle care you extended to your mom as she battled dementia for the last 7+ years. My father had Alzheimer's so I understand the love and bittersweet moments we share as a loved one deals with memory issues. I will keep both of you, Adam and Joti, in my heart and prayers. I'll let my mind wander over the coming days to my special moments with your mom. To the glory of God she has passed from this realm, but her memory and spirit remain here in us. I send my love to you both. I'm grateful for my memories of the two of you (especially as 3rd graders) and for my memories of your dear mom, Shirley Funk! Meaningful and precious. Lovingly, Betty Overland
TS
Terri Skildum
Other •
Dear friends, you have my deepest sympathies. May the Good Lord grant you comfort through the promises of the risen Lord.
M
Marcy
Other •
Shirley and I didn't know each other well but our paths kept crossing. I met Shirley when she was an associate pastor In Springfield IL. It turned out that that had been a classmate of a cousin of mine at Princeton. She was also one of the first people to visit me after the birth of my son. I appreciated her warmth and kindness. We later moved to Madison and I would occasionally see her around town. We always ended up having a long and cheerful conversation. The last time I say was when she was getting ready to move to Washington. My daughter lived in Vancouver BC and she offered to host me if I got to Seattle. Sadly that never happen. I will miss her warm and welcoming presence. Marcy Bradley
JB
Jean Berg
Other •
When Pastor Shirley was serving Lake Edge Lutheran she established a team of members who visited their fellow members who were homebound. The team was called the Care Team and is still sending cards, making visits, delivering meals and communion to our fellow members. We are grateful for the opportunity that became a reality. A brick in Pastor Funk's honor will be placed in our Memorial Garden.

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