Shirley Muchow (91) of Altamont

Shirley L. Muchow, 91, of Altamont, died at 11:12 p.m. Friday, July 30, 2021 at her home.

Shirley Louise (Slingerland) Muchow was born on Thursday, February 20, 1930 in Weslaco. Texas to Henry and Dorothea (Schroeder) Slingerland. Shirley graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1951 with a bachelor of Science in Education. She later earned her Master’s Degree. Shirley married the love of her life, (Warren) Harold Muchow on July 26, 1953. She taught at Altamont and St. Elmo High Schools and at Immanuel Lutheran School in Altamont. Harold and Shirley were married for almost 65 years, he predeceased her on April 15, 2018. That union was blessed with 5 children: Kevin (Elaine) St. Charles, MO; Jeff (Debbie) Altamont, IL; Susan (Scott) Willms, Waterloo, IA; Julie (David) Easton, Mattoon, IL; and Scott (Kristi), Springtown,Texas; Grandchildren: Ashley, Jonathan, Cody, Mason, Joshua (Kailah), Hannah, Tony (Patti), Laura, Abbie, Krystal (Ryan), Molly, Christian and Joey; Great-Grandchildren: Dawson, Halli, Annaliese, Benjamin, Saoirse, Everly, Vincent, Ruairi and baby Vera expected this August.

Shirley worked for Dale Wolff at Taylor Law Offices for 19 years. She served as a board member for the Effingham County Health Department. Shirley was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Altamont and sang in the choir. She also sang with the FACE Choir and the Altamont Community Choir taking part in many concerts, skits and productions. She loved to play cards and belonged to bridge clubs. Shirley volunteered at the Lutheran Care Center, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers & Sisters and Meals on Wheels. In 2009 Shirley was named Altamont Citizen of the Year.

Shirley and her husband Harold were an intricate part of the Altamont Community. As gifted dancers, they shared their talent with many and gave dancing lessons for years.  They traveled the world, were avid gardeners, gourmet cooks and wine makers. This wonderful couple were mentors to friends and family. Their faith in God, work ethic, generosity and genuine interest in others will inspire those who knew them for years to come.

Shirley’s quick wit, sense of humor and her enthusiasm for life will be remembered and cherished by everyone who was privileged to know her. Together again, Shirley has joined Harold for the first of many dances in Heaven.

Shirley was also predeceased by her parents and sisters: Nancy Slingerland and Beverly Schulze. She is survived by her brother Marshall Slingerland, DVM.

Thank you to her dear friends Dale, Jeanne and Faye, for keeping her young at heart. A special thanks to Bill Wendling for always being there looking out for her for his lifelong friend Harold.

There will be a private memorial service at a later date. Gieseking Funeral, Altamont, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be made to The Whoo Hoo Sisterhood, Habitat for Humanity or the donor’s choice.

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