Shirley Ann Uricho neé Chelberg passed away on April 11, 2025 at the age of 92, with her devoted family by her side. She will be remembered for her quick wit, gracious spirit, and timeless class. A bright light and faithful Christian, Shirley had a way of making everyone feel seen and as one friend beautifully said, she “left drops of love everywhere she went.”

Born on February 22, 1933 in Red Wing, Minnesota, the family later moved to Grand Meadow, Minnesota where Shirley graduated as valedictorian of her high school class. She continued her education at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1955– a remarkable achievement at a time when it was somewhat uncommon for women to attend college. She remained a proud and generous alumnus treasuring the lifelong friendships she formed there.

After graduation, Shirley worked in Christian education at churches in Minneapolis and Chicago, before moving to Florida around 1960 where she began working for Sunny South Aviation. Here she was swept off her feet by Robert Uricho Jr. and they were happily married for 36 years before Bob’s passing in 2000. Together they built a life rich with adventure, founding SunAir Electronics, traveling on their sailboat, driving cross country by motorhome and exploring the world by Concorde. They enjoyed their many friends from Ft. Lauderdale and beyond while being devoted to family, often traveling to Wisconsin and hosting many visits to Florida. A longtime member of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Ft Lauderdale, she served as a Stephen Ministry Leader and was always ready to lend encouragement, a hand, or a listening ear. She quietly supported many evangelical initiatives, living out her faith through humble acts of service and genuine compassion. Shirley had a rare gift for making others smile, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed her path.

The last years of Shirley’s life were spent near Amery, Wisconsin surrounded by her ever-growing family. She was a source of unconditional love, inspiration and certainly FUN – a legacy that will live on in their hearts forever.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert Uricho Jr and brother Lawrence “Slim” Chelberg Jr, mother Esther Aronson Chelberg and father Lawrence “Slim” (Evelyn) Chelberg Sr.

Shirley is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Chelberg-Polfus, nephews Larry (LuAnn) Chelberg and Jeff (Jodi) Chelberg and niece Sally (Doug) Emerson. Cherishing her memory are great nieces and nephews Chris (Emily) Chelberg, Ryan (Eimile) Chelberg, Michael (Kalyn) Chelberg, Alicia (Landen) Strilzuk, Reed (Jamie) Chelberg, Megan (Keilan) Mehls, Elianna Emerson, Max (Katelyn) Emerson, and Erika Emerson along with 9 great-great nieces and nephews, and many relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at First Lutheran Church, Amery, WI on June 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm, with visitation prior at 11:00 am. Interment at Amery Cemetery, Amery, WI.

Last Update: Apr 17, 2025 1:09 pm CDT