Shirley Mae Murkowski

Shirley Mae Murkowski, age 79, of Wausau, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Our House Memory Care in Wausau, while under the care of Interim Hospice. She was born on March 13, 1947, in Wausau, and was the daughter to the late Robert and Eleanor (Ballerstine) Eggebrecht. Shirley attended and graduated from Wausau High School. She married Ervin Murkowski on August 3, 1968 in Wausau, a loving union lasting 48 years. Sadly, he passed away on August 15, 2016.

Shirley worked as a dietary aid for Colonial Manor in Wausau for many years. She was a caring and loving woman, that was always putting others before herself. Shirley was a gifted seamstress, making all kinds of pieces that her family will now cherish; dishcloths and pillowcases, just to name a few! She looked forward to family gatherings, especially Christmas time. In their younger years, the family would go on several camping trips all over the Northwoods. Shirley was well-known for her Green Bay Packer house – as she was a very dedicated and loyal fan, and both her and Ervin were the ultimate fans. She also enjoyed baking treats for the family and Chex Mix for every occasion. Shirley enjoyed listening to her Sunday morning polkas and going out for Friday night fish fries with friends and family. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Wausau. Shirley’s kindness, love and care will be missed by all who knew her.

Shirley leaves behind her three daughters: Sherry (Will) Shaw, Monica (Jacob) Hackbarth and Vaneta (Jared) Maahs, grandchildren: Steven (Christy), Jennifer, Reba, Tyler (fiancé, Chelsee), Savanna (Corey) and Luke (fiancé, Rein), seven great grandchildren, brother: Donald (Linda) Eggebrecht and sister-in-law: Sue Eggebrecht. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Ervin, brother: Dale Eggebrecht and brother-in-law: Clem Murkowski.

The memorial service for Shirley will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau. Pastor Chris Johnson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful and caring staff at Our House and the support and compassion from Interim Hospice.

Helke Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Wausau is honored to assist Shirley’s family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.helke.com.