Shirley Elaine Brouse

With great sadness we announce the passing of Shirley Elaine (Grubenla) Brouse, age 80, of Duluth, MN who passed away after a brief battle of colon cancer on August 4th, 2022 while residing at Viewcrest Health Center. Shirley will be greatly missed by her loving family and close friends.

Shirley was born on June 16th, 1942, in Cloquet, MN to John and Myrtle Grubenla. She attended Cloquet High School and graduated in 1960. After high school, she worked as an Elevator Operator at the Medical Arts Building where she met her future husband, Craig Brouse. They were married October 12th, 1963. Together they had three children: Kevin, Dawn, and Randy.

Shirley dedicated her time to raising her children and being a homemaker. She cared for many of the neighborhood children as well. Shirley was a very talented person; she had her own ceramic business for many years. Her ability to decorate a cake was remarkable where she was well known for many of her creations. She was quite the savvy shopper and would find the best bargains. Shirley's talents included crocheting, knitting, sewing, creating lawn ornaments, and not to mention she had amazing cooking/baking skills. In fact, her homemade pizzas soon became a tradition with family and neighbors for a "Monday Pizza Night". Her grandchildren will carry the fondest memories of how she decorated for all the holidays, especially Christmas, inside and outside of her home.

Shirley was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Duluth. She joined the rest of her family in Heaven her parents; sister, JoAnne Johnson; and brother, Norman.

Shirley is survived by her husband of almost 59 years, Craig; sons, Kevin (Heather) Brouse of Lake Nebagamon, WI and Randy (Cheri) Brouse of Saginaw, MN; daughter, Dawn (Bernie) Olson of Superior, WI; grandchildren, Casey and Cory Kozak,  Erika and Lyvia Olson, Taylin and Zander Brouse; step-granddaughter, Stephanie (Ben) Patton of Hawaii; great-grandchildren, Abel Kozak and Joseph Patton; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a small private committal service for immediate family and close friends at Sunrise Memorial Park Cemetery in Hermantown. In lieu of flowers please send donations to First Presbyterian Church of Duluth.

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