Shirley E. Schanz, 79 of Allegan, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, March 4, 2019 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Mrs. Schanz was born August 1, 1939 in Gobles, Michigan, the daughter of the late Forrest and Frieda (Chandler) Laughlin. On August 15, 1959, Shirley married Marion R. Schanz and the two shared a love for the Lord and for the family they created with their three children. In 1975, Shirley and Marion became active members of the Merson Church and shared their faith with all those around them. She enjoyed playing the dulcimer and was very talented at crocheting. She was also very passionate about the Otsego Christian Academy and donated time and resources to help it succeed at instructing the young. Shirley was truly committed to raising her family and loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating wonderful memories to cherish. She leaves behind her three children, Richard and Angela Schanz, Timothy Schanz and Robin Schanz; four grandchildren, Jason Schanz, Christine and Christopher DeKryger, Derek and Trish Schanz, Khrystie and Brock Sheffer; seven great-grandchildren, Kenny, Khandice, Khali, Billie Jo, Millie, Bentley and Landon; six siblings, Forrest "Sonny" and Mary Laughlin, Louise Laughlin, Jerry and Glo Laughlin, Patsy Shyer, Mary Kay and Ron Wiessner, and Victor Laughlin; along with many nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Marion and two siblings, Anna Rose Smith and Loretta Laughlin. Friends may meet with the family at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Friday, March 8, 2019 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at Merson Church on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at 4:00 PM. Memorial donations may be made to the Otsego Christian Academy (247 E. Allegan Street, Otsego, MI 49078). Burial will take place in Mallory Cemetery, Trowbridge Township. Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the family. Service Details. Visitation When: Friday, March 8th, 2019 6:00pm - 8:00pm Location: Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel Address: 528 Trowbridge Street Allegan, Michigan 49010 Funeral Service When: Saturday, March 9th, 2019 4:00pm Location: Merson Church Address: 3313 102nd Ave Gobles, MI 49055 Interment Saturday, March 9th, 2019 | 5:00pm When: Saturday, March 9th, 2019 5:00pm Location: Mallory Cemetery Address: M40 South / Trowbridge Township Allegan, Michigan 49010