Shirley Ann Freeman

Shirley Ann Freeman (Woelfle) 

Shirley Ann Freeman, age 82, of Prentice, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, under the care of Hope Hospice, with her son Rick by her side.  Shirley was born on January 15, 1944, in Fort Collins, CO, to Fred and Mable (Unger) Woelfle.

She grew up in Loveland, CO, and graduated from Loveland High School, Class of 1962. On March 2, 1963, Shirley married William “Bill” Freeman in Reno, NV, and together they built a life that centered around their family. Bill preceded her in death on December 15, 2015.

Shirley was a proud homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for those she loved. Her home was always welcoming, especially during the holidays when she joyfully hosted family gatherings filled with laughter, delicious meals, and cherished traditions. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, tending to her yard — particularly mowing her lawn — watching the birds (especially hummingbirds), camping, and spending time with her family and friends. She loved having company and was always happiest when making snacks and coffee for everyone who walked through her door.

Family was at the center of her life, and she talked with her boys nearly every day, keeping up with the details of their lives and offering steady support. She was a woman who loved deeply, without judgment, and cared wholeheartedly for everyone around her.

She could often be found watching NASCAR, cheering on the Packers & Broncos, and enjoying classic Western movies. She especially loved attending her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s school programs and activities, proudly supporting them in every milestone and accomplishment. Nothing brought her greater happiness than seeing her family grow and thrive.  She also cherished quiet moments at home with her beloved cat, Cali. 

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Shirley was steadfast in her Methodist faith and faithfully livestreamed services each week from her home church in Loveland, CO, remaining deeply connected to the church community she loved.

Shirley is survived by her four sons: Rick (Tara) Freeman of Prentice; Gary (Louise) Freeman of Ogema; Terry (Suzi) Freeman of Hawkins; and William (Julie) Freeman of Ogema. She was a proud and loving grandmother to eleven grandchildren: Miranda (Kyle) Steliga, Dustin (Jenny) Freeman, Mallory Freeman, Kristi (Kabel) Kubarski, Cassaundra (Skyler) Krisik, Makayla (Grace) Freeman, Megyn (Jesus) Ontiveros, Madisyn Freeman, Troy Freeman, Adam (Autumn) Freeman, and Ava Freeman.

Her family continued to grow with the addition of her great-grandchildren: Lexi Freeman; Byndi and Braxtyn Castaneda; Etta and Christian Freeman; Korbyn, Karver, and Kutler Kubarski; Winston Krisik; Annie and Tessa Ontiveros; Jonathan Freeman; and baby Krisik expected in July.

She is further survived by her brother, Richard Woelfle of Loveland, CO; her sister-in-law, Edith Kalander of Prentice; special friends Gladys Bergman and Gary, Amy, and Charlie Damrau; along with many nieces, nephews, dear neighbors, and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bill, her parents, and many other cherished family members and friends.

Shirley will be remembered as the heart of her family — a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, faithful servant, and loyal friend. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love will live on in the generations she nurtured and the many lives she blessed.

Per Shirley’s wishes, a private family service will be held in the spring.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Prentice Ambulance Service, Aspirus Medford paramedics and hospital staff, the staff at UW Madison Hospital, and Hope Hospice.  Your care and compassion will never be forgotten. 

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

HEINDL-NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.