Shirley R. Katula

Shirley R. Katula, age 88, of Winona, formerly of Bluff Siding, WI, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at Benedictine – St. Anne.

She was born on July 24, 1935, on the family farm in Cedar Valley, Winona County, to David and Gertrude (Lampman) Leger.  On July 24, 1952, she was united in marriage with Anthony Katula, Jr., at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Winona, and they enjoyed 69 years together living in Bluff Siding and Winona, until Tony passed away on August 6, 2021.

Shirley was employed for many years in the bakery at Randall’s Grocery Store as a cake decorator, and she was a member of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.

She will be remembered for her artistic talents, creativity, and as someone who was always willing to try new and exciting things.  Shirley enjoyed attending art seminars, teaching cake decorating classes, and spending time outdoors bird watching and tending her flower garden.  She had a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, and she looked forward to traveling, especially to California to spend time with her daughter, Sharon, son, Ray, and their families.

Shirley’s greatest joy in life was her family, and she cherished the time that she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  She will be deeply missed by all those who loved her.

Shirley is lovingly survived by her children: Sharon (Richard) Yeske, Tony (Sue) Katula, Jean (late Wayne) Henderson, Ray (Lisa) Katula, Rich (late Irene) Katula, and Dan Katula; 15 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; sister: Linda Burt; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son-in-law: Wayne Henderson; daughter-in-law: Irene Katula; grandson, James Lancaster; great-grandson, Vincent Ostrander and siblings: Norman Leger, Bob Leger, and Ramona Krett.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at noon on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.  The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate.

Shirley will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Richard Katula, Dan Katula, Tanner Ostrander, Cole Grotjahn, Cutter Henderson, and Loren Katula.

Memorials may be directed to the Winona Humane Society, or to a charity of choice.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Shirley’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.