Shirley Hipke Custer
July 24, 1933 - December 25, 2008
Obituary
Photo Custer, Shirley Hipke MADISON - Shirley Hipke Custer, age 75, died on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2008, from complications of Devics Disease (NMO). She was born on July 24, 1933 in New Holstein, to Gilbert J. and Brunette (Groetzinger) Hipke. Shirley attended college at Stevens College in Columbia, Mo., Iowa Teachers College, UW Whitewater and UW Oshkosh, receiving her teaching degree in 1959. She was a substitute teacher in the Madison Public School District and an Associate Professor with the UW Extension. Shirley took great pride in being a stay-at-home mom, raising her children and instilling in them the love of nature and outdoor activities. Shirley was a longtime member of the Republican Party and enjoyed meeting with her sewing club, participating in lively discussions surrounding politics, particularly that of the most recent Presidential election. A dual member of Eastern Star, New Holstein and Madison Starlite chapters, she was recently recognized as a 50 year member, having served as Worthy Matron and Secretary. Shirley was an avid outdoors enthusiast, offering her time and talents to the Dane County Lakes Commission in the 1970s, and the raising of beetles for the control of purple loosestrife in recent years. A long time lover of dogs, she treasured her time with her two and four legged Golden Retriever friends, and prided herself in being a lifetime member of the Madison Retriever Club and Badger Kennel Club, as well as a charter member of Northern Flyway Golden Retriever Club. Shirley is survived by her husband, Elmer; sons, Mitch (Sandie) of Madison, and Jay (Lisa) of Baldwin; daughter, Heidi of Madison; grandchildren, Michelle (Bret) Pearson, Becky, Jared, Mallory and McKayla Custer; sister, Mary (Walt) Frisch; twin sister Barbara Driskill; her Golden Retriever, Magnum; nieces, nephews and other friends and relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be held at DORIC MASONIC LODGE, 85 S. Stoughton Rd., Madison, at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, Jan 10, 2009. The family is forever grateful to those who brightened up Shirleys last few months with cards, visits and calls. A special thank you to the floor staff at Meriter 8, Tower and Belmont Rehabilitation and Nursing Home for their wonderful care and compassion. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420 www.gundersonfh.com
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Memories
PM
Patti Maye
Other •
My sincere condolences to all of Shirley's family. I knew Shirley through the Madison Retriever club. She always brought a smile to my face.
PR
Phillip L. Rowin
Other •
Shirley was an ad hoc instructor for my Department of Business and Economics. She always had a marvelous educational attitude for her correspondence students. Shirley was a grand woman. Rest in Peace, my friend
MG
Marilyn Schilling Gay
Other •
I was sorry to learn of Shirley's death. It had been many years since I had seen her, or even heard news about her, but will always have fond memories of the Hipke twins - childhood friends and neighbors. A special message to Barbara who was there for me at the time of my brother's death many years ago. And you were also at Mother's funeral when I know it was hard for you to get around. I don't know where you are now, but hope the arthritis hasn't gotten worse through the years. I think of you often - and now extend my sympathy. It must be especially hard to lose a twin.