Shirley M. Dausch

Shirley Magdalene Dausch passed peacefully in her sleep at the age of 91 on Tuesday, September 14, 2021.

Predeceased by her parents, John and Harriet Dausch, and her brother George (Louise) Dausch.

Shirley was mother to four children: Kathleen Fady, Dr. Susan Ruckdeschel, Robert Ruckdeschel, and Peter Ruckdeschel.

Grandchildren: Moria (Mike) D'Ambro, Miranda (Matt) Lee, Manny Jr. (Amanda) Rivera, Anna (Andrew) Ellenberger, Storm Watson and step grandaughter, Amanda Rivera-Lopez.

Great grandchildren: Keira Pickel, Madison Lee, Mila Lee, Kurt Ruckdeschel, Robert Ruckdeschel, Manny Rivera 3rd, Chase Rivera

Nieces and Nephews: Sally Bibby, Ellen Garvin, Steve (Ann) Dausch, Doug (Jane) Dausch

Throughout her life, Shirley remained close with childhood friends: Mary Alice Meyers, Terry Smith, and Babe Schaeffer

Shirley's first job was in Hollywood, CA working for Decca Records, where she boasted meeting Bing Crosby and other celebrities. She was also a fashion model in her early twenties, but most of her career was spent in food service. She waitressed for many years at the Top of the Plaza Restaurant in downtown Rochester, where she continued to meet celebrities and gather their autographs.

Shirley lived an active and full life. She loved to figure skate, play cards, win at Bingo, golf, bowl, and travel. She also loved a good joke - that and a cheeseburger with everything.

Shirl enjoyed spending time with family and was a great listener. She had a childlike innocence and approachability that rendered her loved by all who knew her, right up to her day of passing.

She was lively and fun to be around, and will be greatly missed by family, friends, and caretakers.


As a resident at St. Ann's Community for a little over 10 years, she enjoyed recreational activities and the company of others. Special thanks to the excellent staff at St. Ann's, who lovingly cared for Shirley every day of her residency. They continue to honor and care for the most important people on earth.

Please send donations in Shirley Dausch's memory, and/or in lieu of flowers, to: St. Ann's Community 1500 Portland Ave. Rochester, NY 14621