Shirley R. (Ryder) Lenz, 92, wife of the late Joseph M. Lenz, died June 28th, 2026 at Glenhaven Nursing Home in Glenwood City, WI.

She was born in Lincoln, ME. April 15th, 1934. The Daughter of Walter and Maisie Ryder. Shirley was a Life member of the Amery VFW Auxiliary and member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Garfield Township.

Shirley loved her Family. Shirley also loved baking; collecting recipe books; sharing recipes; supporting the Veterans; taking care of her plants; fishing with Joe; and BINGO!! Oh and a real good joke!

In Shirley’s first marriage – she had 5 Sons. Shirley married Joe and his 4 children were added to the family.

Shirley loved baking and cooking for them all! Making too much food was a hard habit to break. She always had enough food for whoever would stop by and visit.

Shirley is survived by her children, Chuck (Susan) Rodke, Pelican Rapids, MN; John (Jodi) Rodke, Amery, WI; Bill Rodke, Wheeler, WI; Steve (Carol) Lenz, Washington State; Randy Lenz, Pine City, MN; Wendy Waldo (Rodke), Turtle Lake, WI; 18 Grandchildren; Great-grandchildren; and Nieces and Nephews.

She was predeceased by her Parents; Her Husband, Joe; Sons, Walter Rodke, Robert Rodke, and Joseph Lenz Jr., her daughter, Diane (Lenz) Meyer; Brothers, Wm.Ryder, Phillip Ryder, and Kenneth Ryder; and Sisters, Peggy Sue Ryder, Betty Ryder and Louise (Cox) Legere.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 8th at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life to follow from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Garfield Park (Cty Rd F in Deronda, WI).

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred. Memorials may be sent to Williamson-White Funeral Home (222 Harriman Ave N Amery, WI 54001) to be forwarded to Shirley’s family.

Last Update: Jul 03, 2026 9:13 am CDT