Shirley Brustein's Obituary
Shirley Brustein, 91 years old, died peacefully in her sleep 9/26/15. She had an independent spirit and refused to conform to the expectations put on women of her generation. She had a passionate romance with her late husband Abe. They had a unique partnership based on mutual love, respect, equality and a good sense of humor.
Shirley was a social activist, committed to building a better world. She was a participant in many organizations including the Civil Rights Movement, the Anti War Movement, and Women Speak Out for Peace and Justice. She tutored children at risk in public schools and taught adult literacy classes. She was a voracious reader and brought the works of Langston Hughes to the poetry club at her nursing home.
Shirley raised her 3 children, her sister’s children, and provided a home away from home for an extended family of relatives and friends. She taught her grandchildren to swim, to color outside of the lines, and so much more. They are her devoted fan club.
Despite Shirley’s progressive physical disability as she aged, her mind remained marvelous to the end. She is survived by her children Daniel (Joan Trey), Lisa Brand (Eric Tucker), Jeremy (Susan Rozman), niece Naomi Vogel (Bertram Gibbes), daughter-in-law Hope, grandchildren Michael and Laurie Brand, Jennifer, Joshua, (Kristen Radecki), Nathan (Maria Pichler), great nephew and niece Malin and Maya Gibbes and 4 great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Saturday 10/3/15 at 1:00 p.m. at The Gardens of McGregor, 14900 Private Drive, East Cleveland, OH 44112. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations can be made in Shirley’s name to Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio.
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