Shirley Jean Heuck (nee Kellen), currently of Olympia Fields, formerly of Lansing and born in Chicago, passed away on January 10, 2026 at the age of 98 years old.

She was predeceased by her husband, Theodore Heuck, in 2017, her parents John and Suzanne Kellen, and her 10 older siblings: Francis, Mary, Walter, George, Marceline, Leona, Eileen, Josephine, Irwin, and Helen. Shirley is survived by extended family into several generations including Phil Schelinski, husband of her beloved niece Carol, who was tireless in his efforts overseeing the many aspects of her life, including healthcare decisions and social interactions throughout all the changes over the years. Special recognition also goes to her great-niece Christine and great niece-in-law Mary for their many efforts and time spent with Shirley, as well as Lansing neighbors who assisted her while she was still at home and who continued to visit her after she moved.

Shirley was born in Chicago; her early life was spent growing up in the Roseland area, where she attended St. Nicholas grammar school and St. Louis High School Academy. She first worked at the local 5 and 10 store, then at the Superior Match Company (where she packed matchbooks on the fly!), and then alongside her father and sister Eileen at the United Manufacturing Company during the early war years. She married Ted and they first lived with Ted's father in North Roseland and Fernwood areas. She and Ted eventually moved to West Pullman and then Lansing.

Shirley shared celebrations and memories with family and friends throughout her life, including working behind the counter in a lower-level restaurant (with many Kellens, Wiecks, and Schelinskis!) as well as her many adventures growing up in Roseland – the first time she watched how a donut was made… buying her first suit, Easter and Christmas dresses… her first elevator ride... going to Rainbow Cone Ice Cream shop.

Friends are invited to visit with Shirley's family on Wednesday, January 21 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the Schroeder-Lauer Funeral, 3227 Ridge Rd., Lansing, IL. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM in the funeral home chapel with Rev John Richy officiating. Shirley will be laid to rest in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Lansing.

Shirley was a lively woman with a great sense of humor, keeping her relatives always chuckling. She was a wonderful, energetic homemaker, always keeping her house spotless and bright, and cooking many meals. She was beloved by her family and neighbors, who always got a kick out of Shirley's jokes and vocal opinions on everything. Shirley will be greatly missed.