Obituary of Shirley Dykstra

Shirley J. Dykstra, 95, a lifelong resident of Westmoreland, NY passed away peacefully on September 18, 2023.  

She was born October 28, 1927, in Utica, NY and was a daughter of Fred M. Schram and Ruth Kitchen Schram.  Shirley was educated in the Westmoreland school district. Following graduation Shirley had a successful career as a teacher’s aide and cafeteria aide at Westmoreland Central school where she devoted 26 loyal years and aided in the education of many students. 

Shirley was united in marriage to William G. Dykstra on November 21, 1946, in Verona, NY. The two shared three children together and had a blessed union until his passing on June 8, 1996. Shirley had a caring heart and enjoyed helping others, she enjoyed time spent with friends and family, and was a proud mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She was a member of the Westmoreland United Methodist Church, a life member of the Clark Mills American Legion Auxiliary Post #26, and the Westmoreland Historical Society. 

Shirley is survived by her children and their spouses, Glenn and Lois Dykstra of Westmoreland, Patricia and John Januchowski of South Carolina, and Joseph and Charlene Dykstra of Georgia; her grandchildren, Craig and Kayann Januchowski, Rick Dykstra, Sonya Dykstra, Sheila and Robert Caister, Jeff Dykstra, Samantha Dykstra, Krystal Dykstra Boatright and Nicholas and Angel Dykstra; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband; her brothers Robert Schram and Lyle Schram; and two sisters, Trudy Tracy and Doris Weston. 

Arrangements by Owens- Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Clinton, Private services will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Westmoreland. Those wishing to do so may donate in Shirley’s memory to Westmoreland United Methodist Church.