Shirley M. Abbott

Shirley M. Abbott (nee Vanderwarf), age 96, passed away in Algonquin, IL on March 8, 2023. Shirley was born March 3, 1927, in Roseland IL, a suburb of Chicago, IL to Arthur and Julia (Hackenson) Vanderwarf. In 1950 she married Clifford Abbott and they celebrated 51 beautiful years together. After raising their children in Evergreen Park and Downers Grove, IL, they retired to their home on the St. Joseph River in Michigan.

Shirley worked as an accountant for the National Association of Real Estate Boards in Chicago, IL for 7 years and 14 years at the CPA firm Baldwin and Brooks in Oak Brook, IL. She loved to travel, read, and play bridge. She was an active member of the Symphony League, Krasl Art Center and various bridge clubs. 

Shirley is survived by her children, Michael (Cheryl) Abbott of Lake in the Hills, IL, James Abbott of Sacramento, CA, Susan Wakefield/DeFranco (Anthony) of Chicago, IL, and Lynn Abbott of Aurora, IL. Grandsons, Jeremy (Ashley) Wakefield and Jonathan (Alex) DeFranco both of Chicago, IL. Great grandsons, Waylon and Shiloh Wakefield of Chicago, IL. Sister-in-law, Mary Vanderwarf of Palos Heights, IL and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Clifford, her parents, siblings: Caroline, Elaine, John and Thomas.

A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Riverview Cemetery, 2925 Niles Rd., St. Joseph Michigan, MI 49085.

A "Celebration of Life" gathering for Shirley is also being planned to be held in Illinois and Michigan at a later date and will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, 513 Ship St., St. Joseph, Michigan 49085. info please call: (269) 982-4030 or please visit www.smso.org

​Online condolences may be expressed to the family by clicking on Tribute Wall.

 Arrangements entrusted to Willow Funeral Home in Algonquin, Illinois. 

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