Florence Sherman

With a life that spanned nearly a century, Florence Sherman made a significant impact on the hearts and lives of those around her in such a special way. She was a gentle and mild-mannered woman who was content in whatever life brought her way. Florence was a nurturer by nature who selflessly cared for her husband and children. Although she treasured her role as a mother, she just may have argued that being a grandmother was her greatest reward. Life will never be the same without Florence here, but we will never forget her tender words, her tight hugs, and her unconditional love. The year 1919 is often remembered as the year that our nation emerged from WWI, poised for greatness. We were recognized as a world leader for the first time, which left the eyes of the world focused on our shores for what was to come. The 1920s ushered in times of great prosperity with technological advancements that forever transformed the cultural fabric of our nation. The year 1919 was a year to remember in the lives of one active family from Muskegon, Michigan, as they were pleased to welcome a healthy baby girl into their bustling clan on January 3rd. Baby Florence was the youngest of six children born to her parents, Olinto and Santina (Ricco) Simonelli, and was raised in the family home on Simonelli Road. In many ways Florence experienced an upbringing that was fairly typical for the youth of her generation as the prosperity of the 1920s gave way to the dark days of the Great Depression of the 1930s. Throughout her life Florences Italian heritage was of the utmost importance to her. Her family history was something she was very proud of and willing to share with anyone who inquired. The Simonelli familys roots were established in the United States not long before Florence was born as her parents had both immigrated to this country in 1906 with only one child, Ludeveco. Florence was the baby of the family whose other siblings, Ida, Mary, Albert, and Angeline, were also born in the United States. Life was forever changed for Florence when she met the love of her life at a barn dance when she was a young woman. His name was Murray Sherman, and it didnt take long before the couple found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to build a life together Florence and Murray were married on January 12, 1939. Keeping a family in mind, they built their home on Sheffield Street in Muskegon. Together they welcomed three children into their hearts and home, Shirley, Brenda, and Bonnie. From the moment she became a mother Florence fully embraced the enormity of the task. Murray worked hard as the owner and operator of Federal Upholstery, and although Florence helped him in the business at times she was predominantly able to focus her attention at home. Florence made life such a joy for her family. She was a wonderful cook and baker whose specialties included spaghetti and cookies. Saturday nights were always spent going to Grandma and Grandpa Simonellis place where the adults played cards while the children all played together. Sundays most often found the Sherman family out for a drive complete with a stop for ice cream. On occasion there were special walks to Govs Market where Florence picked up the things she needed for her family, and she often treated her children with just a bit of sea-foam candy there as well. All three of the Sherman children received their education through Muskegon Heights schools, and as young women they all found their soul mates and began new families of their own. Nothing could have thrilled Florence more than when she became a grandmother. She was blessed with ten grandchildren altogether, and they were the light of her life. Both Florence and Murray loved spending time with their grandchildren as often as they could, and some of the times they all treasured most were during holiday gatherings filled with plenty of food, laughter, and love. Florence always had brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and ginger snaps along with fresh coffee waiting whenever her family would visit. Sunday afternoons were regular times they got together to play cards, and no one will ever forget their new pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve. In addition to spending time with her family, Florence and Murray also liked playing cards and golfing with special friends. Florence Sherman was a blessing in the lives of so many around her, but she will be remembered most for providing a loving and caring home that was a haven from the outside world for her husband and children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was an extraordinary homemaker whose house was always clean and warm with a door that was always open. Florence gave the best hugs and never wanted to let us go. The memories she leaves behind will be a lasting treasure for years to come. Florence Sherman died on Saturday, August 25, 2012. Florences family includes her 2 daughters, Brenda Johnson of Muskegon & Bonnie (Ron) DeYoung of Norton Shores; 10 grandchildren, Denise Anderson, Rhonda (Paul) Jaenicke, Lorrie (Randy) Dalman, Annette (Corey) Phillips, Vicki (Kevin) Lance, Christina (Pete) Scaccia, Robin (Rodger) Hilliard, Marty (Kelly) Johnson, Glen (Paulette) Maxwell & Brian (Jennfer) Maxwell; many great and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces & nephews. Florence was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Murray on December 2, 1987; daughter, Shirley Maxwell in January of 1987; and 5 siblings, Ludeveco Simonelli, Ida Frankenberger, Albert Simonelli, Mary Zaagman & Angeline Miner. According to her wishes a private family service will be held. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book. Arrangements provided by Clock Life Story-Muskegon.