She was born in Hartford, CT to Paul and Dora (Fischer) Kahl on February 15, 1940. She grew up in Hartford with aspirations of becoming a dancer or artist. Her plans changed after meeting “Freddie” on a blind date. They fell in love, were wed on June 11, 1960, and they were married for 52 years. “Chances Are” they are together again.
Shirley leaves her children Kim (DiScipio) Pierpont and her husband Eddie of Old Lyme, and Vinnie DiScipio and his wife Patty of Niantic. She also leaves several nieces, nephews, and friends including those who held a special place in her heart, her niece Cindy (Solak) Nolan of New Britain, her dearest friend of 56 years, Jan Berry of Killingworth, and long-time friends Art and Ginny Morin of Portland, and Lou and Shirley Jasion of Cromwell.
In addition to her husband Frederick, she was predeceased by her sisters Ann, Minna, Dora, Trudy, and brothers Paul, Heinze and Herbie.
She also leaves her cat and companion for the last 12 years, Hobbs and grand-fur babies Bella, Phoenix, Enzo, and Luna. The mutual love and excitement shown during visits with “Gramma” was heartwarming to witness. They always put a smile on her face, even when she was having a dark day.
Shirley loved animals and birds of all kinds and often thought she should have owned a farm. She was a supporter of many animal, wildlife, and nature conservancy organizations and always managed to contribute what she could with hope she was helping in some way. Her beautiful yard was setup to accommodate housing and food for all of her feathered friends including the hummingbirds which she and her cat enjoyed watching. Shirley was an avid gardener who inherited her “green thumb” from her father. Spending hours selecting plants for her flower and vegetable gardens each spring was a blissful occasion for her. She was also an amazing cook and was famous for her meatballs that were the size of baseballs. Her annual picnics, holidays, and dinner parties are events family and friends still talk about. Shirley also loved to read, play games on her Kindle, go to Mohegan Sun, walk the beach at the Don Cesar in Florida, and “shop ‘til you drop” with her daughter and best friend Kim.
Her kids, Kim, Vinnie, Eddie and Patty will remember their mom for so many wonderful things said and done over the years. The last 10 will be the most memorable as they saw a side of their mom they were not exposed to before. Their mom became a fighter whose bravery and strength allowed her to stand up and face the enemy we all know as cancer. Their mom stood firm and ensured her voice was heard when treatments were being determined. Their mom had the courage to say that she was willing to fight but still wanted quality of life. Their mom’s positive spirit pulled her through years beyond what was expected. But as she was fighting one thing, their mom was stricken with other illnesses that started attacking her already broken body. Their mom got tired and one day realized she had been defeated and surrendered. Their mom left this world with grace looking at her daughter as she took her last breath. No more pain, no more suffering, no more wondering what you did to deserve this. Their mom will be missed every minute of every day plus time in between. Rest in peace Momma.
A special thank you to cousin Cindy and sister-in-law Patty for your love, devotion, support, and kindness.
Fulton-Theroux Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements. There will be no calling hours and burial will be private.
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