In Memory of

Shirlee

J.

Winter

Obituary for Shirlee J. Winter

WINTER, Shirlee Johanna (Irwin), (August 26, 1932-February 27, 2022), age 89, passed away Sunday, February 27, 2022. Shirlee was formerly from Barnesboro, PA before moving to Western New York. Shirlee’s talents were many, she was an avid traveler, loved exploring the world, was an amazing cook, loved music and an incredible dancer. She was active in the political campaign of Governor and Vice-President Nelson Rockefeller, Senators Jacob Javits and Charles Goodell, Representative Jack Kemp and numerous other individuals. She was very active in politics, women’s rights, gay rights, big proponent of equal rights for everyone, and was awarded a plaque for her service for activism for women in politics presented by the Amherst Republican Committee on August 22, 1972. Shirlee was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, community activist and friend who loved to entertain. She was a trendsetter when it came to fashion. She had a smile that lit up the room. She enjoyed hosting parties in the family home in Amherst, NY and yearly visits to Florida with her husband over the years. She loved her family and dedicated her life to her husband, sons, and grandchildren, and making the world a better place for them. She had a passion for life and to live it fully. As she was a doting and fun grandma, she was very active in the lives of her grandchildren. She roller skated with her granddaughter, visited the marina with her grandson, attended nearly every school event over the years, went on field trips, and spoke about her numerous trips all over the world in their classes. Preceded in death by her parents Agnes and Willis J Irwin, three sisters, Pauline (late Raymond) Lesser, Ruth (late John) Master, Iva Mae (late Harold) Jones, and one brother, Robert (late Norma) Irwin. She is survived by her husband of 70 years, John A Winter, two sons, Daniel J (Mary Beth) Winter and Shawn J (Antonella) Winter, granddaughter, Anne E Perry, grandson, David J Winter, sister, Sandra L Schmitt, and several nieces, nephews, and friends. A celebration of Shirlee’s life will take place when her roller skating season arrives. Arrangements by C. Mertz and Son Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to Erie County SPCA or Ladies of Charity, 1122 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14212. Please share condolences at www.mertzfh.com