Shirley Ruth (Carpenter) Gauger

Shirley was born in Milwaukee, WI on August 13, 1929 to Franc C. Carpenter and Myrtle J. Kaumers Carpenter. She graduated from Rufus King High School and became a Medical Secretary. Following a delightful courtship, she married Robert "Bob" T. Gauger of New Berlin, WI on May 16, 1953 at Emmaus Evangelical Lutheran Church. Shirley and Bob went on to adopt two children, Mark Robert and Kris Katherine, and later moved to Houston, TX where the family made their church home at St. Andrew Lutheran.

The Gaugers spent many weekends on one sailboat or another, indulging Bob's passion. Moving up through the ranks, Shirley finished her career as a Vice President at Texas Bank and Trust. After losing Bob earlier than expected, Shirley traveled extensively. More importantly, she spent much time and energy in generous service to her church.

Shirley is preceded in death by her husband and parents. She is survived by her children Mark Gauger and Kris Thompson with husband Lance; her grandchildren Sarah Bircher with fiancé Keith Caruthers, Christopher Gauger, Alex Thompson, and Brandon Gauger; great-granddaughter Penny Caruthers; sister (and best friend) Doris Szymanski; and nephew Dale Szymanski with wife Danielle. She will also be missed by many members of her very important church family.

Due to current social distancing measures, a private graveside funeral with family will be held at Houston National Cemetery. However, we invite you to ponder on the following hymns which were special to Shirley: Be Still My Soul (LW 510), Earth and All Stars (LW 438), Alleluia! Let Praises Ring (LW 437), and Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus (LW 351).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable gift to "Upbring" (formerly Lutheran Social Services of the South) or the charity of your choice.