Shirley A. Deters, 89, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on September 12, 2025, in Abilene, Ks.
Shirley Ann Deters was born on April 2, 1936, in Pawnee, NE to Bernard and Anna (Schafer) Runnebaum. She graduated from High School in Seneca, Ks. She then went on to St. Francis School of Nursing in Topeka, Ks. where she graduated in September of 1956.
On April 23, 1957, Shirley married Clarence A. Deters at Sacred Heart Parish, Baileyville, Ks. After a few years of farming and Shirley working in a rural hospital, they moved to the city of Topeka where Clarence would join the fire department, and Shirley would continue in the nursing field for 47 years in various capacities with the last several years as a hospice nurse. She had a special way of ministering to those getting ready to pass on. She brought God’s love to them, prayed with them and tended to their needs.
In 1964 they were blessed with their son, Steven. In 1967, their family was complete with the addition of their daughter, Michele.
The family spent a lot of time together at the lake enjoying camping, boating, fishing and water skiing. Shirley taught so many people how to water ski over the course of at least 30 years!
Shirley was a woman of very deep faith. She not only possessed that gift, but she poured herself into studying her Catholic faith and the Bible so she could know Jesus more and she loved sharing her knowledge with others. Shirley was always hosting a Bible study in her home, no matter what place she called home over the years of her life. She could be found in her rocking chair every morning, reading her scripture and praying for family, friends, strangers or whatever the Lord put on her heart. She was a friend and defender of Jesus!
Family was important to Shirley. She LOVED her grandchildren and always made an effort to spend time with them. She made it her cause to make each one feel special and loved. She and Clarence had about 65 nieces and nephews between them, and she loved them all very much.
Shirley loved staying active and after her retirement she enjoyed playing golf, making rosaries to give away, spending time with friends and family and travelling.
She was a long-time member of Saint Aloysius Parish in Meriden, Ks. where she was active in many ministries in which she graciously served when called upon. Later, she was a member at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Topeka, Ks.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Clarence. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Bernard and Anna; brothers, Bernard, Ralph, Vincent and Galen Runnebaum; and sisters, Evelyn Lackey, Meletta (Peggy) Marconett and Edna (Pat) Jensen.
Survivors include a son, Steven Deters and wife Cynthia, and their children, Trevor, Justin and Ashley, of Abilene, Ks.; Daughter, Michele Cromer and husband Greg, and their daughter Claire, of Overland Park, Ks.
On Thursday, September 18, 2025, a rosary will be held at 6:30pm at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Abilene, Ks. with visitation to follow at 7:00pm.
On Saturday, September 20, 2025, a rosary starting at 1:30pm, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville, Ks. Shirley will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Baileyville.
Memorials may be given to St. Aloysius Parish in Meriden, Ks. and EWTN. Memorials may e dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.