Shirley Alice Kiesz

Shirley Alice Kiesz passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, four days after celebrating her 100th birthday with her family. She was born in Tacoma, Washington to Eugene and Margaret (Olsen) Simpson. In 1943 she graduated from South Kitsap High School in Port Orchard.

She is survived by her daughter Andrea Milton (Chuck), grandson Ray Petersen (Anna), granddaughter Sandi Petersen, and great-grandchildren Zachary Campion, Heather Petersen, Kaitlyn Petersen and Rozlyn “Rozy” Russel.

She is predeceased in death by her parents Eugene and Margaret Simpson, bothers Robert (Helen) Simpson and David (Mary) Simpson. Also preceding her are husbands Ray Groom, Harry White, Edward Kiesz and long time friend Rickard “Dick” Stewart.

Shirley cherished her social life and loved dancing at every opportunity. Her connections with community included a 50-year membership with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Bremerton Eagles and the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS) Chief’s Club. She attended Emanuel Lutheran Church in Bremerton. Her favorite social establishments included the Maple Leaf Tavern, and participating in many activities as a Lifetime member of the Bremerton Sons of Norway - Oslo Lodge #2-35.

Traveling abroad was a highlight of her life, as she visited Spain, Germany, France, Russia, China, South Korea, Philippines, Panama, and Mexico. Being of Norwegian descent, she was able to locate and visit distant relatives on her trips to Norway. When she wasn’t traveling, she spent time knitting, crocheting and doing embroidery. Shirley was also a seamstress, sewing many square dance outfits and other clothing items.

Shirley will fondly be remembered for her zest for life, warm-hearted smile and love for her daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A gathering to celebrate and remember her life will be held on November 10, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Puerto Vallarta Restaurant located at 1599 Lund Ave, Port Orchard WA.

Any donations one wishes to make can be made to the Bremerton Sons of Norway - Oslo Lodge #2-35, PO Box 4296 Bremerton, WA 98312.