Shirley I. Oravetz, 78, passed away at Hospice House in Pleasant Prairie on Wednesday, August 17, 2011.

A lifelong resident of Racine, Shirley was born on September 8, 1932, the daughter of Carl and Elisabeth (nee: Hisgen) Hansen.

Shirley worked as a purchasing agent at the Racine Public Library for over 37 years, retiring in 1989.  She was a member of Epiphany Lutheran Church and the Racine Geological Society.  She also formerly served on the PTA at Trinity Lutheran School.  Shirley enjoyed reading, traveling and lapidary (a form of jewelry making from stones and gems).  However, Shirley was happiest when she was in the presence of her family.

Her survivors include her loving son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Cheryl Oravetz;  her dear grandchildren, Samantha Kumorkiewicz and Aaron Oravetz and great granddaughter, Cayla Kumorkiewicz all of Racine; sister-in-law, Phyllis Hansen of Silver Spring, MD; as well as nieces and nephews.   In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her sister and brother, JoHannah and Harold Hansen.

Family and friends are invited to meet at Epiphany Lutheran Church (2921 Olive St) on Monday, August 22, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. for the celebration of Shirley's life and funeral service with Rev. Michael D. Zarling officiating.   There will be a visitation in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Sunday afternoon from 1-3 p.m. and in the church on Monday from 10-11 a.m.  Her burial will take place in Graceland Cemetery following the service at Epiphany Church.  Memorials have been suggested to either Epiphany Lutheran Church or Hospice Alliance in Kenosha.