Shirley Ione Satchell, 90, of The Neighborhood of Tellico Village, passed away Jan. 10, 2013.

Born Shirley Ione Janes in Doland, S.D., Sept. 27, 1922 to Clarence and Lela (Akers) Janes, she spent much of her young life in Aberdeen, S.D. She graduated from Aberdeen High School and later attended Delta College. She met David B. Satchell while both were serving in the U.S. Navy. They were married in Olathe, Kan., on May 5, 1944 and after 65 years of marriage, David preceded her in death July 18, 2009.

For most of her life, Shirley made her home in Freeland, Mich., and Estero, Fla., moving to The Neighborhood of Tellico Village in recent years.

One of her greatest joys was raising her six children on the family’s horse farm in Michigan and guiding them with pride through their many accomplishments. Shirley served in the U.S. Navy as specialist, Second Class, V-10, as a link instructor (simulated cockpit trainer).

Shirley and David continued to pilot private planes for many years after their active service and spent frequent weekends snow skiing with their children in northern Michigan. Together they embarked on several road trips across the U.S. and Canada in their large motor homes.

She owned and operated Satchell Realty in Saginaw, Mich., and was a member of the Saginaw Board of Realtors, Freeland United Methodist Church, Saginaw Ski Club and the Freeland Women’s Study Club.

Shirley enjoyed square dancing, tennis and golf with David. She was co-chair for the Senior Olympics in their Florida community. An avid reader, Shirley kept abreast of current events, had favorite authors and delighted her grandchildren by using Facebook.

She loved playing Bridge and Scrabble and was a clever wordsmith. She added her lovely soprano voice to local concert choirs, and was an accomplished artist, seamstress and quilter. A friend to all, she will be loved and remembered most for her quick wit; gracious, gentle demeanor; and her beautiful smile.

Surviving family members incude three sons, Terry (Kay) Satchell of Hendersonville, N.C.; Daniel (Joyce) Satchell of Sedalia, Colo.; Kevin (Cathy) Satchell of Oak Ridge, N.C.; and two daughters, Melanie (Dr. James) Bennett of (Tellico Village) Loudon and Lori (Craig) Collins of Brentwood. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, Shirley's eldest son, Dr. David A. Satchell, of Manitowoc, Wis., preceded her in death. His widow, Beth Satchell, survives. Shirley's parents and a sister also preceded her in death.
Cremation took place at Weaver Funeral Home, Knoxville. Memorial services for Shirley will be held June 15 at the Freeland (Mich.) United Methodist Church with interment at Chapel Hill Mausoleum.

The family requests that donations be made in Shirley's memory to Freeland United Methodist Church, 205 E. Washington Rd, Freeland, Mich. 48623 or to a charity of your choice.