August 31, 1920 - May 31, 2023
At nearly 103 years old, Shirley passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, in Novato, California.
Born in San Francisco, Shirley moved to Milbrae shortly after her children were born and later to Foster City and then to San Jose. She was the daughter of Jacob Gold of San Francisco. Shirley was married to her dear husband Charles Israel until his passing in 1986 after which she spent many wonderful years with her loving partner Bob Semichy at their home in San Jose.
She loved, and was loved, by her many dear friends and family members. She is survived by her children, Vicki and Doug Coffman of San Jose and David and Evelyn Israel of San Anselmo as well as her 5 grandchildren, Susie Arango (Camillo), Judy Spenser (Jeff), Melanie Krueer (Michi), Jessica Buck (John), Jason Israel (Jen), and her 9 great grandchildren. She is also survived by Bob's loving family, Bob Jr. (Liz), Jocelyn (Kevin), Alison (Max).
Shirley was a kind and loving soul and had a zest for life, spending time tending to her garden. For years she enjoyed her square dancing, line dancing and attending theater. Shirley also worked as a pharmacist's assistant for Kaiser until she retired.
Shirley was born during the 1920s pandemic only to face the required isolation of the latest pandemic 100 years later which took its toll. She moved to the Memory Care Unit at Oakmont of Novato this past February.
Her life was a journey. One well spent. She will always be in our hearts and her legacy will live on through the kindness and many lessons she shared.
No flowers please.