Shirley Jean Wares

Traverse City - Shirley Jean Wares, 81, of Traverse City passed away February 16, 2015 at Munson Medical Center.

Shirley was born on May 12, 1933 in Tecumseh to the late John "Jack" and Anabel (Hall) Finnegan.

As a young girl Shirley excelled in school and won many spelling bee's. After graduating from high school she began her successful career with Avon. She retired after 20+ years with the company. Shirley then became a realtor.

In her spare time she enjoyed being outdoors. She loved to fish, garden, mushroom, and teach her grandkids how to swim. Holidays were very important to her, and she loved to have the whole family together. Shirley was quite the prankster and got a kick out of April Fools Day every year. She also liked to travel and get all dolled up. Above all else, Shirley cherished the time she spent with her family.

Shirley is survived by her son Jerome (Lori) Manwaring, daughter Susan (Russ) McLean, son Timothy (Connie) Manwaring, daughter-in-law Dena Curry; grandchildren Tanya Manwaring, Delphos Kollhoff, Esther Kluck, and Krista Manwaring, Blake and Clay Manwaring; brother Roger Finnegan and sister Christine Bucy; lifelong friends Antoinette Staal and Margaret Walton, and devoted care giver Karen Fall who had become a good friend and companion over the last ten years.

Shirley was preceded in death by her son Sanderson Manwaring, first husband Clair Manwaring, second husband Theron "Moose" Wares and long time companion Pat Morey; and sisters Patricia Bacon, Carol Simpson and Jacqueline Pappalardo.

A memorial service celebrating Shirley's life will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 11 am at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Cherryland Humane Society or to the Grand Traverse County Commission on Aging. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the commission for the wonderful care and support they provided to Shirley over the last ten years.