Shirley L. Van Benschoten

Shirley Luann Van Benschoten of Tecumseh passed away on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024 at the Hospice of Lenawee Home in Adrian, Mich. She was born March 25, 1953, in Lenawee County, Mich., the daughter of the late Edward and Thelma (Ashenfelter) Martin. On April 5, 1978, she married Bryan Robert Van Benschoten at the Tecumseh Assembly of God Church, and they shared over 46 years together.

After receiving a BFA in painting from Siena Heights College, Adrian, Mich., Shirley spent her lifetime as an artist with paintings shown in various galleries, shows, art fairs, festivals and art fundraisers. She also took on various roles in the art community and had the distinct privilege and honor of working on the Lenawee County Millennium Sculpture Project in Adrian. As a longtime member of Lenawee Council for Visual Artists, she served as president of the organization. In January 2016, Shirley helped to open Studio One, as part of the Adrian Center for the Arts, and served as director of the facility. As well as the time she spent fulfilling her dedication and love for painting and drawing, Shirley additionally worked as a postal clerk carrier for the United States Postal Service and served as an active member of the Tecumseh Assembly of God Church. She also enjoyed filling her spare time with bow and arrow target shooting, gardening, and feeding and watching the squirrels.

Besides her husband, Bryan, Shirley is survived by her son, Elijah (Stephanie Shank) Van Benschoten of Cincinnati, Ohio; her sister, Lori Martin; and a grandchild, Hunt Van Benschoten of Cincinnati.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her two brothers, Steve and Dean Martin.

Visitation for Shirley will be from 10-11a.m. on Monday, September 30 at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Mitchell |Frost officiating. Interment will take place in Lenawee Hills Memorial Gardens in Tecumseh.  Online condolences may be offered to the family at handlerfuneralhomes.com.