Montague, MA – Shirley M. Slahetka, 85, will be remembered for more than 40 years of friendship, hospitality, and dedication to Pine Grove Golf Course, where she and her longtime partner, Gil Verrillo, helped create a special place for generations of golfers and friends in the Northampton area.
Together, Shirley and Gil ran Pine Grove Golf Course for more than four decades, continuing until its closure in 2020. Shirley managed the clubhouse, where she became a familiar and beloved presence. Known for her warm personality, welcoming spirit, and ability to make people feel at home, she helped make Pine Grove much more than a golf course. It was a gathering place where friendships flourished, stories were shared, and countless memories were made. Shirley was an essential part of what made it so special.
Beyond the golf course, Shirley treasured her many friendships, especially those she shared with her fellow member and friends at the Elks Lodge 997 in Florence. The companionship and camaraderie she found there were an important part of her life, and she will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
In her late years, Shirley faced the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s disease. Gil remained faithfully by her side throughout this difficult chapter. He extends his heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited Shirley during her decline, offering their time, kindness, friendship, and love. Those visits brought comfort to Shirley and Gil alike and were a meaningful reminder of the many people whose lives she had touched over the years.
Shirley leaves behind her longtime partner, Gil Verrillo, with whom she shared more than four decades of life, work, and cherished memories. Their years together at Pine Grove represented not only a lasting partnership but also a shared commitment to a community that brought so many people together.
Shirley’s legacy lives on in the friendships she nurtured, the laughter she shared, and the countless memories made at the Pine Grove. For those who knew her, she will always be remembered as the familiar, welcoming face behind the clubhouse, the woman who helped make everyone feel like a friend, and the person who made an ordinary day at the golf course a little more special.
She will be deeply missed by Gil, her many friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Please consider sending flowers or making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday October 23 at 10am at the Our Lady of Peace Church in Turner’s Falls, with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Turner’s Falls. A Celebration of Shirley’s Life will be held on Thursday October 22 from 4p-7p at the Elk’s Lodge 997 in Florence.
Please go to Czelusniakfuneralhome.com for online condolences and tribute book.
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