Shirley J. Leinonen

Franklin, WI — Shirley Jean Rosenwirth Leinonen, age 80, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026. Shirley took a turn and fought for 9 straight days. We believe she was waiting for this particular date. Shirley was all about signs and “24” was Jeff Gordon’s car number and her husband's favorite driver. 

She was born on February 14, 1946 in Milwaukee, WI to Eldariene and Walter Rosenwirth. Shirl was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend who will never be forgotten. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jerry Leinonen; and her step-daughter, Toni Lee Babcock. 

She is survived by her two sons, Scott (Becky) Sands of Franklin and Dan (Loria) Burdick of Florida; her step-daughter, Angie Schuster of Berlin, and step-son, Todd (Connie) Arthur of Oshkosh. Her brother in law, Craig (Janice) Leinonen of Franklin; Sisters, Nina (Greg) Trapp and Carol Ann Rosenwirth, both of Milwaukee; and her brother, Jim Rosenwirth of Arizona. She is further survived by her nieces, Amber and Ashley Trapp; nephews, Greg Jr. and Mathew Trapp; grandchildren, Paige, Lillian & Gavin Sands, Victoria & Aaron Burdick; Riley and Morgan Schuster; Apryle (Matt) Krause, Jared (Amanda) and Jordan (Kat) Djupstom, Jonah Miller; many great-grandchildren; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends.

During her years she was a member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 192, Franklin, WI and the Red Hat Society. Shirley graduated from Greendale High School and retired from the US Postal Service in Franklin, WI. Family and friends mourn her passing while celebrating a life well lived. 

A graveside service and will be held at St. Peter Cemetery on Saturday, June 13th, 2026 at 11 AM. 

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all the nurses and staff at Elizabeth Residence in Franklin along with nurses and staff from Badger Hospice for the loving care given to Shirley during her stay at Elizabeth Residence. You all went above and beyond and we are forever grateful.