LIMESTONE – Shirley Grace Bretzke, 74, wife of the late Carmen A. “Buzz” Bretzke, and beloved mother and grandmother, passed away Tuesday morning, Aug. 23, 2011, at her residence after an extended period of declining health. She was born Sept. 29, 1936, in Botwood, Newfoundland, daughter of Arch and Mary (Lyver) Dean.
Shirley graduated from high school in Botwood, Newfoundland, in 1955 and was married to Carmen “Buzz” Bretzke, July 21, 1955. Mrs. Bretzke was employed as the arts and craft director for the U.S. Civil Service at the former Loring Air Force Base, Limestone, for more than 25 years, and was a member of Limestone United Methodist Church. Shirley enjoyed bowling, cooking, traveling and spending time at the family cottage on Jackson Brook Lake, Brookton, however her greatest joy was her family.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her husband of 33 years, Carmen “Buzz” Bretzke, May 13, 1988; as well as six brothers and sisters. Our loved one will be forever loved and missed in our broken hearts by her daughter, Cindy Bretzke and her companion, Raymond Giordano, of Syracuse, N.Y.; one son and daughter-in-law, Rudy and Carrie Bretzke, of Limestone; one grandson, Evan Bretzke and his wife, Alishia, of Mars Hill; and two granddaughters, Ashley Segura of Syracuse, N.Y., and Haley Bretzke of Limestone. She also leaves behind her companion, C.P. Harris of Limestone; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at Giberson-Dorsey Funeral Home, 144 Main St., Fort Fairfield. The funeral service will be conducted 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at Limestone United Methodist Church, 52 Main St., Limestone, with Pastor Ellen Cleaves officiating. Our love will be laid to rest and reunited with her husband after the funeral service at Advent Cemetery, Grand Falls Road, Limestone. A time of continued fellowship with refreshments will be held after the interment service at the church reception area. Those who wish may contribute in memory of Mrs. Bretzke to Limestone United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 2 Burleigh St., Limestone, ME 04750. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and church.
On the wings of a butterfly.