Shirley Marie Fonken

Shirley Fonken of Estes Park, CO died on September 8, 2022. She was born in 1932 to Herman and Frieda (Thomas) Gompert in Mitchell, NE. She graduated high school in 1950 from Sunflower School in Mitchell, NE. Shirley received her Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics from Colorado A&M College. Shirley married her husband of 69 years Dave Fonken in Mitchell, NE on June 14, 1953 and had three children. She taught high school in Wellington, and Special Education in NE. and Bangladesh. She taught Home Economics in Pakistan and was a school counselor there as well, helping students secure admission to Universities in the US.

Shirley and Dave have traveled extensively, living in CO., AZ, CA., NE, IL, WY, NM, Bangladesh, Egypt and Pakistan. Living for 15 years in foreign countries immeasurably expanded her understanding of people, cultures and religions and brought a richness to her life and family. But to Shirley, her most rewarding accomplishment was raising her three children Royce, Gael and Paul.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband Dave Fonken, Children Royce and Loriana Fonken of The Villages, FL. Gael Fonken of St. Cloud, MN and Paul and Erin Fonken of Estes Park, CO. She is survived by 7 grandchildren: David (Lizeth), Dale, Boomer, Delaney (Troy), Isaac (Anna), Elizabeth, Matthew (Diana), and 3 great grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at a later date. To leave a message to the family please visit www.allnuttestespark.com

“Her nurturing and compassionate soul will live in the hearts of her family and all those who have been lucky enough to have crossed her path”