Shirley Hipke Custer

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.