Shirley Joan Kaluza, 93, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025 — surely arriving somewhere with plenty of coffee, lively conversation, and a kitchen table full of familiar faces.
Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Shirley was the youngest and last surviving of six siblings: Eleanor, Irene, Laverne, Anna Mae, and Bill. Losing her father early in life shaped her resilience, but being “the baby” of the family sharpened her wit, honed her sass, and gave her a gift for the well-timed sigh or perfect eye roll.
She met her match in her late husband, Casey Kaluza, who adored her. Shirley cared for him through his battle with Alzheimer’s, showing all who knew her what true devotion looks like.
Shirley will be lovingly remembered by her daughters Karen (Pahuski), Kathy (Ryan), and Sharon; sons-in-law Jack and Mike; grandchildren Erin, Lauren, and Matthew; and future grandson-in-law Mathew Sanders. Each carries her stubborn streak, humor, and low tolerance for nonsense. She was also a proud aunt to many nieces and nephews, a “Gram” to countless honorary grandkids, and a friend whose kitchen table was always open.
Known for her legendary potato salad, sharp sarcasm, and ability to make anyone feel at home, Shirley could spend hours swapping stories, sharing opinions, and offering advice—solicited or not—with a sparkle in her eye and coffee in hand. Loyal to her beloved Chicago White Sox despite decades of heartbreak, she stuck with them through every season, often with colorful commentary.
Shirley lived with grit, laughed with gusto, and loved with a loyalty that ran deep—though she never let anyone win at rummy. Ninety-three years of shenanigans still wasn’t enough. We’ll see you later, boss.
In lieu of flowers, do something Shirley would approve of: give to your favorite charity, say what you really think, root for the Sox (but don’t expect a win), and eat the good potato salad.
Visitation: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 4–8 p.m., Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice.
Funeral: Friday, August 8, 2025, 10 a.m., Service and Time of Remembrance at the funeral home.
Interment: Fairmount-Willow Hills Memorial Park, Willow Springs.