Shirley Ann Gutowski

Shirley Ann Gutowski

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley A. Gutowski of Wausau, Wisconsin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, who departed this world on March 2, 2024.

Born on June 15, 1937, in Wausau, Wisconsin to Mona Greubel (nee Huehnerfuss) and Harold Saindon. Shirley had one brother, Phillip Saindon (deceased). Shirley attended Wausau East High School, graduating in 1955 and that same year she married Joseph Gutowski (“Joe”).

Shirley gave unwavering love to her family. She was a devoted wife for 68 years to Joe Gutowski through their life, and was an anchor to her family as they navigated military moves to Patuxent River, Maryland, Memphis, Tennessee, Rota, Spain and San Diego, California. She loved San Diego and lived there for twenty years, returning to Wausau, Wisconsin upon Joe’s military retirement.

Shirley was the proud and loving mother of three children: Steven Gutowski (67), Gary Gutowski (62), and Julie Meeks (nee Gutowski) (59). She was a nurturing mother with a fun sense of humor, and she created a home full of warmth, love and laughter.  Shirley was the foundation for her children and grandchildren, especially around the holidays; and her legendary cookies and pies were the centerpiece of every occasion. She was extremely kindhearted, had a great sense of humor, and exhibited such a warmth and joyful presence that made everyone she met gravitate toward her.

Shirley loved helping people and made monthly donations to at least a dozen charities. She was a woman of devout faith, and strongly believed in the promise of the afterlife. Although we are devastated that she is no longer with us, we find solace knowing she is joyfully reunited with her parents and brother in Heaven.

Shirley is survived by her husband Joe, her three children,  five grandchildren Hillary (Steve) Nester (nee Annin), Miles (Sarah) Annin, Gray Clohessy, Hayley Gutowski, and Alex Gutowski. She was also the great-grandmother to Blair Annin, and Emmett and Jack Nester and mother-in law to Mark Meeks, Hiedi Gutowski and Judy Gutowski.

The funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 15, 2024 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.  Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until the time of service all at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com