Shirley Goemmel

Shirley Joan Goemmel, born

in 1935 in Omaha, Nebraska,

to Charles and Nellie Leon.

She passed away peacefully on

June 3, 2025, at Happy Valley

Graceful Living in Happy Valley,

Oregon. She was the second of

four siblings - Ruth, Phyllis, and

Charles III. Shirley later settled

in Portland, Oregon, where she

created a beautiful life of family,

love, and creativity. She attended

Oregon State University, where

she studied home economics,

laying the foundation for her

lifelong skills and passions.

In 1956, Shirley married

Richard “Dick” E. Goemmel,

her high school sweetheart, who preceded her in death in 2012

after 56 years of treasured memories. Following a career at Bell

Telephone Co. and a role as a secretary for Richard, she retired

in 1977 to dedicate herself to being a stay-at-home mother.

Shirley’s talents were in her hobbies and passions; she was an

exceptional seamstress and gifted hostess.

Together, she and Dick - who served as Commodore of the

Columbia River Yacht Club (CRYC) - played an active and

gracious role in the CRYC community, supporting its events

and fostering connections among members. They loved

traveling abroad, boating, and exploring the country in their

motorcoach, visiting nearly all 50 states. Shirley took part

in thespian productions, as well as print and commercial ad

campaigns. She had a spirited sense of humor and love of

laughter.

Shirley is survived by her sister Phyllis, brother Charles III,

and her three sons - Jeffrey Scot (Karen), Steven John (Gail),

and Daniel Ross (Diane), as well as numerous grandchildren

and great-grandchildren, all of whom will forever cherish her

memory.

A viewing will be held on Monday, June 16th, from 10 to 11

a.m., followed by graveside services at 12 p.m., at:

Rose City Cemetery & Funeral Home.