Shirley Ann Wilfong
Shirley Ann Wilfong
Shirley Ann Wilfong, 83, of Merrillan, WI, passed away Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, with her loving husband, Fred, holding her hand.
She was born Oct. 30, 1942, in Chicago, IL, to Edward and Emily (Novak) Basara. She grew up in Merrillan on the family farm before moving with her family back to Chicago. She graduated from Wells High School in Chicago and was married to Peter F. Werdermann in 1961. They later separated, but welcomed a daughter, Susan, together.
Shirley worked for many years as a secretary at Blommer Chocolate in Chicago. She later became a mortgage specialist at PNC Mortgage and then Washington Mutual, both in Illinois. Shortly after meeting the love of her life, Fred Wilfong, he and Shirley welcomed daughter Ellen. They later married on Aug. 14, 1982.
Shirley was able to retire at the same time as her sister, Sandra. They both moved back to the Merrillan area. Shirley was proud to live on her family farm again, keeping it in the family since 1947. She also enjoyed hunting, reading and spending time with her family. She always kept a close relationship with Jesus. She will be deeply missed.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Fred Wilfong of Merrillan; two daughters, Susan (Ric) Mondelli of Mundelein, IL and Ellen (Karl) Gewalt of McHenry, IL; five grandchildren, Phillip, Sophie, and Faith Fiorovante and Karly and Brooke Gewalt; three step-grandchildren, Mike, Matt, and Molly Mondelli; sister Sandra (Bill) Williamson of Merrillan; aunt, Dolores Kenyon of Black River Falls; sisters- and-brothers-in-law; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; former husband, Peter; and many sisters- and brothers-in-law.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at Torgerson Funeral Home, Black River Falls, with Pastor Terry Marg officiating. Burial will follow at Hatfield Cemetery. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service.
Torgerson Funeral Home, Black River Falls is assisting the family with arrangements.