Shirley (Geesler) Goebel, 89, Camillus, NY slipped peacefully from this earthly life in the loving presence of her family January 24, 2018. She was born to Kenneth and Florence (Amrhein) Geesler in Ilion, NY. After graduating from Ilion High School in 1946 she worked as a jewelry and soda fountain clerk. She married Rudolph J. Goebel, the love of her life, August 6, 1949 upon his return from overseas duty while serving in the Marine Corps.
She and Rudy raised three children while working side-by-side to build from-the-ground-up three of the homes where their children grew up in East Herkimer, NY.
She was a formidable housekeeper and unfaltering in her endeavor to provide a loving and comfortable home for her family. As a winsome young mother she enjoyed family tent-camping in the ‘foothills of the Adirondacks’ and Sunday afternoon picnics all through the summers. It was these outings which established their childrens’ love of nature and the outdoors. After her children were beyond grade school she returned to the workforce in the Cash office at Montgomery Ward’s in Herkimer, NY. She was an avid backyard birdwatcher and enjoyed cuddling up with many a good book. She wore the wheels of several stationary bikes as she planned her days. In all things she was strong-willed, mischievous, and a force and joy to be reckoned with.
She was predeceased by Rudolph (2003) and a sister, Vivian Holmes. She is survived by her children. Kenneth (Lorraine Tomei) of Swanzey, NH; Diane (Richard) Thompson of Marietta, NY; and Susan (Alan) Stone of Dover, NH as well as a sister-in-law and several nieces and cousins.
Calling hours will be from noon till 1 p.m. Monday January 29, at the Plis Funeral Home, 33 North St., Marcellus, NY with a service immediately following at 1 p.m..
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory to The Paralyzed Veterans of America.