Canton, Ohio - Shirley M Wendt, 89, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026 at The Inn at Whitewood.

She was born on August 17, 1936 in Ashtabula, the daughter of Merle and Edith (Moy) Banning, Sr. and had lived her entire life in Ashtabula or Rocky River. After high school, she attended Ohio University then earned her certificate in Medical Technology from Western Reserve.

On May 16, 1964, Shirley married the love of her life, John Wendt, at First Baptist Church and together they shared 27 wonderful years before his passing in 1991.

Always concerned for others, Shirley spent 35 years in the healthcare field working as a medical technician for Geneva Memorial Hospital. A member of Ashtabula First Baptist Church where she had many dear friends, she attended and volunteered regularly and sang in the church choir. She also belonged to the Red Hat Society.

She loved to play cards, especially bridge and was active in local bridge clubs. A devoted community servant, she volunteered with Ashtabula County Medical Center, the church, and for many local community events.

Her survivors include her sons, John (Dana) Wendt of Canton, and Matthew (Aya) Wendt of Ashtabula; and six grandchildren, Alexis, Lauren, Connor, Kendall, Jasmine, and Dean.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Wendt; her brother, Merle Banning, Jr.; and her parents.

Visitation will be from 10:30-11AM with a service to follow at 11AM on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at First Baptist Church, 4353 Park Avenue Ashtabula. Pastor Ed Pickard, a longtime friend of Shirley, will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memory Gardens in North Kingsville, OH.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at https://www.jdrf.ca/

Online condolences can be made at www.ducro.com. Arrangements are being handled by Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, 4524 Elm Ave. Ashtabula, OH