Shirley A. Farwell

GRAND DETOUR, IL ~ Shirley A. Farwell, age 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Shepards Nursing Home of Oregon, IL. She was born on April 13, 1936, in Oregon, IL, the daughter of Clarence W. & Katie J. (Friemuth) Gann. She married William “Bill” Farwell and spent many wonderful years together. Shirley worked at the Dixon Correctional Center as an accountant for many years, along with being a real-estate agent. She loved the outdoors, especially the time she spent with her family on the Rock River or hunting for Morel Mushrooms in the nearby forests. Shirley lived for many years on the banks of the Rock River, where she would spend time with her family boating, fishing and just being with those she loved. Shirley had a deep passion for animals; she always loved to care for her birds and cats. Family was the most important thing in her life, although she never had children of her own, she loved her nieces and nephews as her own children.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, two brothers Wayne Gann and Gene Gann, and sister Helen Cermak. She is survived and missed dearly by her loving siblings Ted (Bonnie) Gann, Oregon, IL; Rogene (James) Strite of Mt. Morris, IL; Roger (Sarah) Gann of Oregon, IL; many dear nieces’ nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews; and Bill’s children, her step-children.

Shirley's family would like to express their most heartfelt thank you to those who cared for Shirley in her final months. Especially the staff at Shepard’s Premiere Living of Oregon, IL and Transitions Hospice of Rockford, IL. Their love and care will never be forgotten by Shirley’s family.

Private family services have been scheduled and will be conducted by Pastor Therese Whitten of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Oregon, IL. Shirley will be laid to rest alongside her husband Bill at Grand Detour Cemetery of Grand Detour, IL. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to either Shepard’s Premiere Living of Oregon, IL or Transitions Hospice of Rockford, IL so that they may continue to help those in need.