FREDERIKA — Shirley Jean Mack, 90, of Frederika, died Saturday, August 8, 2026, at New Hampton Nursing & Rehab Center.
Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, August 13, at St. John Lutheran Church in Frederika, with Rev. Evan Meester officiating. Visitation was set for 10 to 11 a.m. at the church. Shirley will be laid to rest at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery in rural Fredericksburg.
Born November 11, 1935, in rural Bremer County, Shirley was the daughter of Emil and Viola (Gebert) Bergmann. Her Lutheran faith became an important part of her life at an early age. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Siegel and graduated from Frederika High School in 1954.
Shirley married her high school sweetheart, Merle Mack, on June 2, 1957, after he returned from Army service. The two built a life together filled with shared experiences and especially enjoyed camping. Merle died in 1999.
Over the years, Shirley worked at the Frederika Locker and later Farmers State Bank in Frederika. She was known as a dependable worker who took pride in doing her job well.
Away from work, Shirley enjoyed creating crafts, some of which she sold locally and through a craft shop in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. She also kept a camper for many years at Big River Campground in Prairie du Chien, where she enjoyed time away and made many lasting memories.
Later in life, Shirley shared a 17-year relationship with her special companion, Irvin Brown. They built a home and life together until his death in 2020.
Shirley also had a soft spot for animals, particularly poodles and cats. Family and friends will remember a woman who could be determined and strong while also showing kindness, creativity and affection for those around her.
Survivors include her niece, Pam Sterba and Howard Thompson of Waverly; nephews Jim Sterba of Sumner, Jerry and Verla Sterba of Newton, Richard Sterba of Des Moines, David and Kristina Bravener of Hazleton, and Michael and Heather Wettengel of Gilbertville; sister-in-law Elaine Bravener of Hiawatha; special friends Cliff and Donna Edson of Ionia; as well as cousins and other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Merle Mack; her special companion, Irvin Brown; sisters-in-law Wanda Sterba and Eleanor Wettengel; niece Susan Houg; and niece-in-law Diane Sterba.
Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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