Shirley Foltz Svenson

Shirley Foltz Svenson passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 22, 2022.

Shirley was a life-long resident of Akron, Ohio. She attended King School (where she was later a fifth-grade teacher) and West High School. She graduated from Smith College of Northampton, Massachusetts with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. She received her Master’s degree in Education from the University of Akron.

She was an elementary school teacher in Akron for more than twenty-five years. During those years, she enjoyed knowing, guiding, and teaching many wonderful children. She was named as a Martha Holden Jennings Scholar for her work with children.

She was an active member of The Smith College Club of Akron serving as treasurer for many years. In 1985, she began her long-time volunteer service for the Metropolitan Parks, first as a School Group Guide and later as Trail Patrol Member and Desk Aide at the Seiberling Nature Realm. She also volunteered for the Grace United Church of Christ’s Food Program as a member from Bath United Church of Christ.

She loved animals, especially cats, and really enjoyed the time she spent volunteering at the Humane Society of Summit County.

She was a member of the Akron Women’s City Club and of the Akron Unit of the American Contract Bridge League. She served as President of the Akron Unit and on their Board for several terms. She enjoyed playing, teaching, and directing bridge for several area clubs and “working” on cruise ships directing their bridge programs.

She was a past member of the Junior League of Akron.

She was preceded in death by Robert H. Svenson, who she was married to for more than forty years; and by her brother, Bill Foltz (Pat) of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA.

She is survived by daughters, Deborah Hughes of Grove City, PA and Wendy Cooper of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; son, Richard Osborne of San Clemente, CA; four grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sunrise, Traditions, Maplewood, and Home Instead for the care and support that they provided to Shirley.

Private services have been held.

Memorial donations in Shirley’s name may be made to any food program of your choice or to the Humane Society of Summit County, 7996 Darrow Rd., Twinsburg, OH 44087.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.