Shirley Mae Lees

Shirley Mae Lees, whose warmth and vivacity graced the world for ninety luminous years, passed away on July 30, 2026, in Michigan. Born on July 23, 1936, in Holland, Michigan, to John and Anna Belder, Shirley's life was an embodiment of perseverance, community, and joyful engagement. Her story is one of devotion to family, steadfast friendship, and an example of how to live fully through changing seasons of life.

From a young age, Shirley shined with an outgoing spirit and a penchant for bringing people together, a trait that only blossomed as she grew. She and her sister, the late Arlene Fuller, cheered side by side at Fremont High School, where Shirley's vibrant energy first came to light before she graduated and stepped into adulthood. Her life was always filled with activity, laughter, and the special brand of organization that made her an admired administrator and planner-qualities that never faltered with the years.

In the early 1970s, Shirley began a most remarkable chapter when she founded Fountain Optical in Grand Haven, MI. With characteristic drive, she steered the company from its inception in 1973, building it into a thriving venture serving her community until relocating in 1986. To Shirley, Fountain Optical was more than a business; it was a way to make a difference-a testament to her unwavering work ethic and her eye for opportunity.

After relocating to Salem, Massachusetts, Shirley brought her skills and steady hands to the office of Sentry Alarm in Malden, leaving her mark on yet another community. But Shirley's passions were never limited to her work; she was a woman who embraced life in all its variety.

She found true freedom outdoors, most notably on the golf course. Shirley's love for golf was lifelong and legendary-her friends will remember her as a regular on the greens, often playing two nights a week even as she neared her ninetieth birthday. Astoundingly, at 89, she enjoyed her favorite game surrounded by friends who ensured her presence was never missed. Shirley's connection with these dear friends extended beyond the fairways. Through winters and rainy seasons, they gathered around tables for cards, laughter, and camaraderie, their bonds as strong as ever.

A proud member of Fruitport Christian Reformed Church and a lifetime member of the Muskegon Motorcycle Club, Shirley's sense of adventure was irrepressible. Whether she was out on the hills, dirt-bike and hill-climb riding, or sitting at church among friends and neighbors, Shirley was fully present-a bright, unmistakable spirit woven into the life of every community she joined.

Above all, Shirley's heart belonged to her family, both those who go on and those who went before. She is survived by her devoted husband, John Lees; her loving son Alan (Deana) Richter; and her daughter-in-law Deana Richter. Her grandchildren, Megan and Brooke; her great grandchildren Hayden, Adalyn and Avarie. Her step children J. Richard (Lianida) Lees and Keven Lees; step-grandchildren, Stephanie, Lheajane, JC, John, Sheri, Amy Garret, Brianna, Mandy, Lynn, Stephen, and Jeffery. Step-great-grandchildren, Matteo, Camille, Santino, Sophia, Madden, Mason, Adriana, Maryjane, Olivia, Gabriel, and Dominic. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, son Dale Richter, step-son Shawn Lees, grandchildren, Jennifer Lees, Jay Lees, brothers Floyd Belder and Jason Belder; sister Arlene Fuller.

Though dementia marked her final years, Shirley remained fiercely active and deeply engaged with those she loved. It was after a sudden fall resulting in a traumatic brain injury, followed by a brief time in hospice, that her journey concluded-peacefully, leaving echoes of her laughter and stories in the hearts she touched.

Shirley Mae Lees lived each day with intention, gratitude, and delight, setting an example for all who knew her. From the golf courses where she played among friends, to the businesses she nurtured with focus and respect, to the arms of her loving family, Shirley's presence was radiant and unforgettable.

A visitation honoring Shirley will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 am at Fruitport Christian Reformed Church, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am at the same location (3520 E. Pontaluna Rd., Fruitport, MI 49415). 

The world feels quieter without Shirley's lively voice, yet her memory endures as effervescent and enduring as the laughter of dear friends gathered for one more game of cards, or the final satisfying strike of the golf ball echoing through a summer evening.