Shirley Elaine Hall

Shirley Elaine Hall, 82, of Hartford passed away peacefully Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, at home with her family at her side.

Shirley leaves behind her son, Richard Hall, and wife, Susan Hall, of Hartford; and her granddaughter, Sarah Hall, and significant other, Christopher Welch, of Detroit.

Shirley was preceded in passing by her husband, Robert ‘Bob’ Hall of 57 years; her parents: Edward and Gertrude Rodewald-Baiers; and brother, Ronald Baiers.

Shirley graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1956. She was a homemaker until 1970, and then began her career at Dowagiac Union Schools for 29 years as a librarian. Shirley’s passion for reading has inspired many people in her life.

In 1999, Shirley and Bob built a new home on the “Hartford Farms” property in Hartford, now renamed “Daffodil Acres”. The property is known for its bountiful daffodils in the spring, and their son, Rick, and his family live next door.

When Shirley retired from Dowagiac schools, she volunteered part time at Woodside Elementary School in Hartford, as a “Grandma” in the library. She also took on a new role upon retirement - Grandma. Her granddaughter, Sarah, lived next door, so she would pick her up from school and bring her home for snacks and reading time until Susan or Rick got home from work. Grandma and grandpa living next door was great! Sarah wandered over whenever she wanted, with her cats following along to play in the woodshop and help grandma with craft projects.

Shirley spent many days with Bob in the woodshop building wooden toys and replica tractors. She attended all of the regional tractor shows with Bob. She was also known for her famous holiday cookies. She would bake for days, then deliver delicious goodies to several families, friends, and businesses in the community.

Shirley and Bob were inseparable. In 2006, they were both named Hartford’s "Citizens of the Year". This was the first time the award had been given to more than one person. She and Bob also served as chairmen for the Hartford Christmas Parade for several years, and were members of the Hartford Friends of the Library.

The family will welcome friends at a graveside service at the Keeler Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29. Pastor Stephanie Norton will officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donation’s be made to Caring Circle of Lakeland (Hospice), the Hartford Fire Department or the Hartford Public Library. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

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