Shirley Kemnitz

Shirley Kemnitz, 77, Bismarck, passed away on Saturday, October 28 2023.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, from 5-7:00 PM at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck. A vigil service will begin at 5:30 PM.

A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Corpus Christi Church, 1919 N. 2nd St., Bismarck.

Private burial will take place at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan.

Shirley was born on November 8, 1945, to Peter and Lena (Peters) Jordan. She spent her early years on a farm in Hettinger County, south of Richardson, North Dakota. Growing up in the simplicity of rural life, Shirley attended a one-room country schoolhouse before continuing her education at St. Mary's Boarding School in New England, North Dakota, for her freshman year of high school. Her parents then made the decision to sell the homestead farm and relocate the family to Bismarck, where Shirley graduated from St. Mary’s High School.

After graduating from Bismarck State College in 1965, Shirley dedicated herself to caring for her parents, foregoing further studies. Tragedy struck with the loss of her sister, Mary Jane, on July 16, 1966, and brother, Jerry in 1995. Shirley's resilience and unwavering commitment to her family were evident during these challenging times.
On October 20, 1973, Shirley embarked on a new chapter in her life and married the love of her life, Larry Kemnitz. Together, they recently celebrated their remarkable milestone of 50 years of marriage. Shirley's primary focus was always her family, and she willingly dropped everything to support and care for them. Her nurturing nature and selflessness earned her immense gratitude and love from her beloved family.

She enjoyed venturing south to California and later Arizona after retirement, enjoying golf and forming lasting friendships.
Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, Shirley displayed unwavering strength and grace. She was deeply grateful for the love and care she received from her family, friends, and healthcare professionals during her journey. Her resilience and positive outlook on life served as an inspiration to all who knew her.

Shirley Kemnitz is survived by her loving husband, Larry Kemnitz, who stood by her side through thick and thin. She also leaves behind her devoted children, Mary Tauger (Chris Tauger), Beth Kemnitz, David Kemnitz (JoAnne Kemnitz), and Pam Eggert (Kyle Eggert). Shirley cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and took great joy in watching them grow, including, Madison Tauger (15), Savanah Kemnitz (14), Britta Kemnitz (12), McKenna Tauger (12), Noah Kemnitz (10), Bennett Eggert (9), and Charlie Eggert (7). Shirley is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jan Jordan; nephew, Mike (Staci) Jordan; and niece, Sue Jordan. Their happiness brought immense fulfillment to her life.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jerry Jordan; and sister, Mary Jane Hubbard.