Edith Jane Shook

Edith Jane (Benson) Shook, age 90, born November 6, 1935, in Merrill, Wisconsin, passed away on August 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. A twin and one of many siblings, Edith Jane grew up in Irma, Wisconsin, where her strong work ethic, faith, and devotion to others first took root.

After graduating high school, Edith Jane bravely enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, completing Boot Camp at Parris Island, South Carolina. She was later stationed at El Toro, California, where she met the love of her life, fellow Marine Frederic “Jack” Shook. They married on July 10, 1954, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in faith, service, and unwavering commitment to one another.

When Jack re‑enlisted in the United States Air Force, their life together carried them across the United States and the Far East. No matter where they were stationed, Edith Jane created a warm, welcoming, and beautiful home for their growing family of six children. Her strength, adaptability, and nurturing spirit were constants through every move and every chapter.

Edith Jane dedicated her life to serving others. She was a hands‑on, giving, and caring mother; a steadfast sister; and a faithful witness for God. Edith Jane dedicated her life to the service of God. She was a Pastor’s wife for forty years, standing beside her husband and sharing her faith at every opportunity. Her home was always open—offering meals, shelter, counsel, and comfort to anyone in need. She often reflected with amazement that a “country gal from Irma” had the courage to enlist in the Marine Corps, and she considered meeting Jack the watchful hand of God, as they later came to know the Lord together.

She was preceded in death by her parents George Walter Benson and Florence Elizabeth (Winchester) Moore; her siblings Mabel (Adolph) Johnson, John (Ruth) Benson, George Benson, Margaret (Lloyd) Wilson, Harold (Bernice) Benson, Leonard (Gisele) Benson, Norman (Rita) Benson, Nellie (Dennis) Collins, Clarence (Mabel) Benson, Ethel (Jim) Griffin, and David Benson; her beloved husband Frederic Jack Shook; and her daughter Vicky Elizabeth Schroeder.

She is survived by her children Frederic (Debra) Shook, James (Penny) Shook, Stephanie (John) Goertz, Deborah Shook, and Carrie Pierschalla; Leonard Schroeder son in law, 13 grandchildren, 34 great‑grandchildren, and 4 great‑great‑grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and subsequent generations who carry her legacy forward.

Edith Jane was creative, constantly involved in making something unique. She loved cooking and exploring new recipes. She loved nature and all that it had to offer- from sticks to flowers to birds and animals.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Interim Healthcare Hospice Services whose compassion, guidance and gentle care brought comfort and dignity to Edith Jane’s final days.

Edith Jane’s life was one of courage, devotion, generosity, and faith. Her impact lives on in the countless lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the love she gave freely. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. 

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill. Burial will take place in Chat Cemetery, Town of Birch, Lincoln County, with graveside military rites provided by V.F.W. Post 1638 - Merrill. Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, September 8, 2026 and after 10:00 A.M., Wednesday September 9, 2026, all at the funeral home.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com