Shirley (Van Gheem) Gussert, 86, Allouez, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2023, surrounded by her family. Shirley was born on September 8, 1936, to the late Sylvester and Leona (Hendricks) Van Gheem on the home farm in West De Pere. She was the eldest of six siblings: Dave, Don, Nancy, Dennis, and Duane.

Shirley graduated as valedictorian of her class at West De Pere High School in 1954. She earned her teaching license at Outagamie County Normal School and began her teaching career at Nichols Elementary School. She continued teaching in one-room schoolhouses throughout the area. Later, she taught for the De Pere School District at all grade levels and ran the summer school program for 18 years. She was president of the support staff union. Shirley concluded her career at Heritage Elementary as school secretary. In all, she devoted 56 years to the School District of De Pere. She is well known and loved by former students, parents, and staff of the school district.

Shirley married Ernest Gussert on June 14, 1958, at St. Boniface Church in De Pere. The couple resided in the Green Bay area where they raised their four children.

Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards, doing crossword puzzles, tending to her flower gardens, and following NASCAR. She always hosted family holidays and events and was a wonderful cook. Shirley was a giving, selfless person who was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband, Ernest, and their four children: Craig Gussert of Howard, Christine (Don) Hanson of Ladysmith, Richard (Trisha) Gussert of Katy, Texas, and Melissa Etheridge of Madison. Grandchildren; Kelsey Hanson, Holly (Sam) Nigon, Rob Hanson, Kyle, Ryan, and Kendall Gussert and Emma Etheridge. She is also survived by three great-grandchildren: Montgomery, Violet, and Rosalie Nigon. She is further survived by her brothers; Don (Betty) Van Gheem of Crivitz, Dennis Van Gheem of De Pere, Duane (Beth) Van Gheem of Clintonville, and sister Nancy Rogne of De Pere. Shirley is further survived by her brothers-in-law Gerald, Greg, and Mark, and sisters-in-law Joan, Jean, and Susan.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and brother Dave Van Gheem.

Family and friends may call to Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth St, De Pere, on Sunday, June 11, 2023, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a prayer service to conclude the evening. Visitation will continue Monday, June 12, 2023, at Resurrection Catholic Church, (333 Hilltop Dr. Green Bay) from 9:00 AM until 10:45 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 AM with Father Tom Reynebeau officiating.