Shirley Czaplewski

Shirley Mae (Benedict) Czaplewski, age 90, of Winona, passed away Thursday, February 28, 2019, at 2:45 in the afternoon, at Saint Anne Extended Healthcare in Winona. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Shirley was born in Winona on May 20, 1928, to a big family, including her parents, Faye and Stella Phillips, and brothers and sisters: Jean, Donna, Stanley (Arlene), Jim, Sharron, and Rich. Shirley was married to Raymond Benedict in 1945, and together they had 6 children: Billy (Shirley), Patty (Jaime) Rojas, Robert (Tracey), Gerald (Dawn), Raymond, and Mike (Burnette). Later, she was married to her husband Carl Czaplewski, and they welcomed Rory Rebels into their family.

Shirley was a lifelong member of the Church of the Nazarene. Known for her snappy style and perfect hair, she loved spending time at the many large family picnics, playing poker, and collecting trinkets from garage sales. The final 18 years of her life were spent with her partner Joe Bambenek. Always hand in hand, they enjoyed fishing on the boat, selling their home-grown tomatoes, and watching the Minnesota Twins.

Shirley is welcomed in heaven by her mom and dad; her siblings: Stanley, Jim, and Rich; and her sons: Billy and Rory. Shirley is survived by the rest of her immediate family, as well as her 20 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by the love of her life Joe, and they spent 18 wonderful years together.

Visitation will be held from 3 PM until the funeral service at 5 PM on Monday, March 4, 2019, at the Church of the Nazarene in Winona.  Pastor Michael Bartlett will officiate.  Following the service, a luncheon will be served at the church.

Shirley will be laid to rest in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: John Schewe, Jeff Strand, Raquel Benedict, Tiffany Benedict, Allen Benedict, and Luke Benedict.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Shirley’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.