Obituaries

Shirley Dordean Vert, age 94, of Sault Ste, Marie, MI passed away on February 5, 2023, at home, surrounded by her children.

Shirley was born on May 19, 1928, in Decatur, Illinois to the late Orlow Russell and Dorothy (Woodhall) Lanham. She was a member of the First Church of Christ for many years. Shirley was a faithful, active member and attended faithfully until she was not able, due to advanced age.

Shirley enjoyed crocheting, sewing and making clothing for her children and grandchildren, baking, and making meals for guests. After attending the Wilton School of Cake Decorating in Chicago, Shirley made and decorated a large number of wedding cakes for friends and family. Shirley also taught cake decorating for many years.

Shirley, with her husband Alex, owned and operated the Hilltop Motel in Sault Ste. Marie until 1976.

Shirley worked for several different organizations as a cook and volunteered in many areas.

Shirley’s family was very important to her, and her life centered around them.

Shirley is survived by her children: Dorothy J. (John M.) Robenault of Skandia, MI, Diana S. Vert of Sault Ste. Marie, MI., and Alex R. (Stephanie A.) Vert of Sault Ste. Marie, MI; five grandchildren: Rachael D. Robenault, John R. Robenault, Jaelynn C. (Colton) Harris, Breanna C. Vert and Mallory C. Vert. Shirley is also survived by her sister- in- law: Elizabeth Lanham of Port Huron, MI. Shirley married into the very large Vert family and will also be missed by those sisters-and-brothers-in-law still surviving and many nieces and nephews, as well.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Richard Lanham and husband Alex Vert whom she married on January 2, 1965 at the First Church of Christ in Sault Ste. Marie, MI.

A celebration of life will be held at the First Church of Christ on February 18, 2023 at 4:00p.m., dinner to follow. Visitation will be held prior to the Celebration, at First Church, from 2:00p.m. till 4:00p.m.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to First Church of Christ and/or Hospice of the EUP.