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In Memory

Shirley Stanz (Geraghty) - Class Of 1945 VIEW PROFILE

Shirley Stanz (Geraghty)

Shirley Stanz Geraghty passed away in her home on July 29, 2023.

Shirley was an incredible woman, mother, business leader, teacher, and community volunteer.  She loved her family (both personal and business family) and took pride in the great things that the Stanz team (along with the help of many supplier and business partners) helped accomplish over the more than 68 years that she called Stanz “home away from home”.

Shirley had a wonderful and engaging sense of humor and a strong clarity for doing the right things right.  She just loved being at work, was passionate about teaching others, and was incredibly dedicated to Stanz and the community organizations that she so lovingly served (especially the South Bend Symphony).

Shirley grew up in South Bend and graduated from Carlton College in Minnesota.  She initially taught math at the elementary level before she started her career at Stanz in the early 50’s, working for her dad (Emil Stanz) and uncle (Henry Stanz). Along with several partners (Clyde Geraghty, Jim Roessler, George Weber, John Wright, Bob Wiltrout and so many dedicated employees), Shirley helped lead the Stanz Business, representing the 2nd generation of Stanz ownership beginning in the late 70’s.

Shirley continued her career at Stanz, eventually taking on the role of CEO and Chairman, and Successfully helped transition the business to the 3rd generation of Stanz family leadership (represented by her children Mark and Wendy Harman) in the mid 90’s.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents (Emil and Hilda Stanz), her siblings (Marilee, Virginia, Barbara, and Wallace), niece (Sherry Clarke, daughter of Marilee), and is survived by several nieces and nephews, her children Wendy Gilliam (Ken) and Mark Harman (Kristi), and two grandchildren (Blake and Nicholas).

We all will miss Shirley (Mom) but are also thankful she is now in a place of peace.

Join us in closing your eyes and spending a moment to silently send Shirley a message of love and appreciation in your own way.  We are convinced she will hear it.

08/04/2023 JFC



Click here to see Shirley's last Profile entry.