Shirley Ann (Boudreau) Rouse, age 93, passed away peacefully in Appleton, Wisconsin. Born in Somerville, Massachusetts, Shirley was the beloved daughter of Leon and Clara Boudreau and lived a life defined by devotion to family, service to others, and an enduring love of learning.

From an early age, Shirley embraced life with independence and grace. As a teenager, she would walk to work at a dress shop to earn only nickels a day. She spoke of those early years with love and joy, telling stories of a childhood spent sharing her bedroom with her sisters and around a dinner table that always seemed to have room for one more. Shirley often said that her parents made sure there was always a place in their home for anyone down on their luck, and that lesson became the foundation of her generous spirit.

A woman of remarkable work ethic and resilience, Shirley built a strong foundation for her family through dedication and perseverance. She worked as an executive secretary at a law firm on Long Island and later at Northrop Grumman, where she was entrusted with exceptional security clearance (a fact she was always proud to share). Shirley worked with determination to provide for her sons and to ensure their future. Making ends meet with two children was no easy feat, but she loved to say that the most challenging times in life often disguise the greatest blessings.

Her enthusiasm and curiosity extended far beyond her work. She loved to travel, fly, sail, golf, and volunteer. She was an avid gardener, a devoted volunteer, a Cub Scout den mother, and a master of Scrabble—matched only by her beloved son Joel and her dear friend Regina Byrd. In her later years, Shirley shared a deep bond with her son Glenn, who cared for her with unwavering kindness and compassion. She lovingly made and decorated every one of her boys’ birthday cakes by hand, a reflection of the care she poured into everything she did. Learning to golf led her to a new passion and to a treasured friendship with Regina. One passion led to another, as Regina was the one to introduce Shirley to the love of her life, the late Robert G. Rouse. Shirley and Bob built not only a beautiful life together, but a beautiful home in Watch Hill, Connecticut.

Together, Shirley and Bob later made their home at the Masonic Care Community at Ashlar Village, where they found deep community and purpose as longtime residents and generous donors. Shirley also served for many years as Chair of the Scholarship Committee and took great pride in helping many deserving young adults pursue their dreams.

Most recently, Shirley moved to Appleton to be closer to family and was deeply touched by the kindness and compassion of the residents and staff at Touchmark on West Prospect.

Those who knew Shirley will remember her inquisitive mind, sharp wit, and wonderful sense of humor. She read every plaque in every museum, loved the arts—especially music—and carried a deep compassion for others. Though she was well traveled, her favorite journey was visiting Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny, France, with her husband Bob. A devoted Christian, Shirley lived her faith through action, giving back as a hospice volunteer, sewing and reading through her church, and quietly supporting those in need. Her unwavering strength, optimism, and dedication to family were constants throughout her life.

Shirley is survived by her sons Joel Fischer and Glenn Fischer and his wife Jessica Fischer; her grandchildren Ben Fischer and his wife Eunice Fischer, and Charlie Fischer; her stepdaughters Leslie Rouse and Laurie Rouse; her brother Paul Boudreau and his companion Cheryl Mills; and many nieces and nephews, many of whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert G. Rouse; her sisters Jeannette Daley and Marie Buonopane; her brothers Warren Boudreau and L. Joseph Boudreau; and her sisters-in-law Patricia Boudreau and Joyce Boudreau.

Internment will take place later this year alongside her husband Bob. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many care teams, friends, and loved ones who supported Shirley with compassion and dignity, especially Ashlar Village in Wallingford, Connecticut; Touchmark on West Prospect in Appleton, Wisconsin; and St. Croix Hospice of Appleton. The family also extends special thanks to Bill, Karen, Larry, and Susan for their enduring love and support of Shirley, each in their own way.

Shirley believed deeply in hard work, lifelong learning, and creating a better world through quiet acts of kindness and steadfast love. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the communities she served, and the countless lives she touched. Those who knew her are better for it, and will remember her with love, joy, and a touch of sunshine yellow.