Shirley Marlene Durrstein, 94, of Freeport, IL, passed away on August 19, 2021, surrounded by family and caregivers. She was born on February 16, 1927, in Janesville, WI, to Paul and Margret (Simmons) Schmeling. She was a graduate of Janesville High School. She married Wayne White on June 23, 1945, until 1962, then would later marry William Durrstein on May 25, 1982. She was a legal secretary and would retire from Sieg Illinois Auto Parts Inc. where she worked as the Purchasing Agent. After Shirley retired, she helped her son, Jeff, at JD's Pet Paradise with the accounting, cleaning, and working at every other position when needed. She was a member of St. John UCC, Friends Forever Humane Society, Humane Society of the United States, and Eagles (FOE).

Survivors include her sons: Paul (Doris) White and Jeff (Charles) White; stepsons: Stuart (Janice) White and Steven White; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, her best friend for over 50 years, Norma Parriott, her caregivers, and her cat Lily.

She was preceded in death by her parents, aunts, husband William Durrstein, and friends: Helen Choate, Marian Waterman, and Dorothy White.

A memorial service will be held on Monday August 30, 2021, at 2 PM, with visitation at 1 PM until time of service, at the Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd in Freeport, IL, with Rev. Hank Fairman officiating. In lieu of flowers, please, send donations to Friends Forever Humane Society and/or Wounded Warrior Project.

Shirley was a devoted Mother to her sons and many other people in her life. She was a faithful friend. She was a fantastic cook and baker, making weekly and holiday family dinners for all whom she considered family and friends. She was an avid gardener and canner of the vegetables and fruit she grew or anybody else grew. She greatly enjoyed dancing and traveling with her friends. Shirley was home bound the last few years of her life. She was as caring and giving to her caregivers as they were to her. She even taught some of her caregivers how to cook. Her Family is eternally grateful for the care and kindness her caregivers gave to Mom.