Shirley Ann Kranzberg Nelkin passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, surrounded by her loving family.
A graveside memorial service was held at Rose Hill Cemetery on Oct. 1, at 2:30 p.m. In honor of her memory, contributions may be made to an organization of one's choice.
Shirley was born Dec. 14, 1934, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Rose and Louis Look. Shirley's grandmother Alena Wein played a significant role in her upbringing. Shirley referred to her grandmother as her cherished companion. Shirley's parents owned a clothing store; her grandmother took on much of the childing rearing responsibilities while Shirley's parents minded the family business. As a child, one of Shirley's fondest memories is going to market with her father and helping him select merchandise for the clothing store.
Shirley's brother, Larry, was 12 years younger and was born with Down's syndrome. Shirley worked diligently and lovingly to give Larry many opportunities to live a life rich in experiences, such as social activities, travel and precious time spent with family.
Shirley graduated from Wyandotte High School and attended the University of Missouri-Columbia. Throughout her adult life, Shirley volunteered for many organizations. When living in St. Louis, Missouri, Shirley was a member of the Human Relations Commission, Hadassah, American Field Service, and the Ladue School Board of Education.
In 1981, Shirley returned to the Kansas City area, living in Overland Park, Kansas, and then Leawood, Kansas. Shirley owned and managed Summerset Plaza Shoppes, a shopping center in Prairie Village, Kansas, which her parents developed and owned. Shirley continued to make volunteering a passion in her life, becoming a member of the Rainbow Hospital Auxiliary, Menorah Medical Center Auxiliary Board, a buyer and co-chairman of the Menorah Hospital gift shop, B'nai Jehudah Sisterhood, Brandeis and National Council of Jewish Women.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Rose and Louis Look; her brother, Larry Look; her children's father, Chuck Kranzberg; and her second husband, Nedwyn Nelkin. Surviving her are her children, Sheldon Kranzberg, Lynn Kranzberg Shafton, Brian (Pamela) Kranzberg, Ken (Teresa) Nelkin and Joy (Scott) Wieder; grandchildren, Perry and Alex Kranzberg, Adam and Daniel Shafton, Taylor (Samantha) Kranzberg, Ryan (Savannah) Nelkin, Melissa (Travis) Dietrich, Cory (Namita) Nelkin, Shira (Zack) Hinden, Seth (Kelsey) Wieder and Carley Wieder; and great-grandchildren, Ella and Avery Nelkin, Cora and Eve Dietrich, Mia and Claire Nelkin and Hope Hinden.
Shirley lived a life devoted to her family. Celebrating Jewish holidays with family brought great nachas (pride) to Shirley. In addition, Shirley cherished her close friendships. She knew no strangers; she extended an outstretched hand to new acquaintances and sought out opportunities to engage others. She loved to travel and was proud of her first adventure to Israel, going solo and navigating all aspects of her journey. She also traveled to France, London, Russia, Scandinavian countries and Ukraine. A life well lived, Shirley will be remembered for her love, kindness and caring.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by Kristin Metz, Patrisha, Carletta and Bernita with Vitas Hospice and caregivers Chris, Kim, Teamika and Pamela with Always There Health Care. Online condolences may be left for the family at louismemorialchapel.com.
