Obituary of Shirley M. Berton

Berton, Shirley Mae Berton (Weinberg) 9-13-1928 - Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved wife of William Berton for 67 years, Shirley passed away peacefully on October 8, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. She was 95 years old. Shirley was born September 13, 1928 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

As the story goes, with Shirley being born on the 13th of the month, and knowing she would be celebrating her birthday on Friday the 13th in some years, her mom tried to have the birth certificate changed to the 14th but the hospital was having no part of that. So superstition lost out and a great gift was given to us on the 13th. 

Shirley was the youngest of 4 kids, and with 3 older brothers she never minded being taken care of and spoiled by her older siblings as she grew up. She was never afraid to take the initiative but was often underestimated in her endeavors because of her efforts to always try to stay out of the limelight. Her bright red hair though never let her stay in the background nor did her exuberant laughter. All of this played a role in how she met the love of her life and her husband, Bill.  There was a notable private party going on in a social hall and she encouraged a girlfriend to join her in impersonating journalists to gain entry. The improbable ruse worked, and she made her way into a conversation with the future love of her life and the rest is history as they were married on February 15, 1948.

Shirley had a love for reading books and typically read every day. Shirley had an avid interest in bridge (cards) and was part of several bridge groups. She also had a love for travel and seeing the world, playing scrabble, casino gambling and enjoyed dancing till the wee hours. Shirley volunteered her time and boundless energy at McBrite Manor assisted living and other like organizations assisting the residents and calling bingo (one of her favorite pastimes) for many years.

But her greatest passion was the upbringing and care of her family. At one point while her husband Bill was working full time and getting his law degree later in his career in Detroit, Shirley kept the family tight and nurtured at home in Saginaw balancing her work and the kids' many activities. 

She was renowned for making some of the best home cooked meals and making sure one and all had plenty to enjoy. Recently her grandson had made a special request to have her exceptional matzah ball soup at his upcoming Bar Mitzvah. 

It would be remiss not to mention her unique communication skills. Shirley not only wore her heart on her sleeve, but in her whole face. With one of her looks you knew exactly what she was conveying without a word said. In fact, in her last few years, she was unable to use words, but her mind and spirit stayed sharp and engaged.  She could carry a conversation with her expressive energy. Her grateful and loving face could melt your heart.

She was a long standing member of Temple B'nai Israel and then Temple Beth Israel. Shirley was preceded by her husband Bill and her three Brothers, Sol, Irv and Joe. Shirley; and their four children: Bruce Berton, Troy MI, Elliot Berton (Lori) Shields MI, Robert Berton (Julie) Charlotte NC and Tamara Benkert (Tom) Shields MI; Nine grandchildren: Aaron Berton (Bethany) Haslett, MI, Amy Kay (Jared) Palm City, FL, Dayna Cary (Chad) Sandwich, MA, Gheric Berton (Elaine) Charlotte, NC, Nathan Berton (Renee) Charlotte, NC, Jacob Berton (Becca) Charleston, SC, Jordan Brizzi (Nick) Charlotte, NC, Ryan Benkert Rockville, Maryland and Megan Benkert Shields, MI; fourteen great grandchildren: Issac Berton, Tatum and Tinsley Kay, Tessa, Benjamin and Rebecca Cary, Cameron, Davis, and Carson Berton,  Haiden, Nora, and Millie Berton, Jamie and Sloane Berton. 

Shirley leaves a legacy of caring, unlimited and loving support, and a family that will cherish her memory for generations.

Special thanks to our “in town” family tree - Elliot Berton and Tamara Benkert & her family (especially Megan) that gave of their time to always ensure both Mom & earlier Dad had such beautiful and constant loving care. 

Forever grateful and appreciative. 

FUNERAL: Funeral Services will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off Sate Street). Rabbi Dorit Edut will officiate with burial to follow in the Hebrew Cemetery.

VISITATION: Family and Friends may gather at the funeral home on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers Shirley would wish for you to make a donation to a charity of your choice that makes the world a better place.