Shirley Ann Kuczek

Shirley Ann Kuczek, 86, was a proud Alaska resident for more than 50 years. She was embraced by our Lord on December 23, 2024.

Shirley is survived by her children, Cheryl and Ron Kuczek. Her husband Ron preceded her in death in 2001.

Shirley was born on Flag Day in Oakland, CA, on June 14, 1938. She graduated from Santa Clara High School in 1957. After high school, she moved to San Jose, CA, and supported herself working as a telephone operator.

Shirley met the love of her life, Ronald J. Kuczek Sr., in 1957, and they were married in San Jose on May 24, 1958. Ronald was in the Navy and Air Force, and they traveled wherever he was stationed. Shirley supported Ronald through his military career. It was truly a team effort to build their family and better lives for themselves.

Shirley had their first child, a daughter named Cheryl, in Oak Harbor, WA, in June 1961. Her second child, a son named Ronald John Kuczek Jr., was born at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, CA on February 23, 1963.

Shirley continued to support Ronald and their family when it was Ronald's dream to live in Alaska, and they were stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in 1971.

Shirley was finally able to go back to work. She wholeheartedly loved being a school secretary for Anchorage School District, starting in 1971, and retiring in the mid-90s. She was beloved by the teachers, her principals and, most of all, the students and their parents.

She loved to travel with friends, and had a wonderful community of friends at Park Place condos for 20-plus years. She loved fun clothes, playing cards, house plants, and orchids.

Shirley's Memorial Service is at Holy Family Cathedral in Anchorage on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.  Visitation is at 1 p.m., with Mass at 2 p.m., and reception to follow.

Donations may be made to any Anchorage animal rescue group.