Shirley Echemann
Shirley Mae Echemann, 93 of Zanesville, died 8:22 AM, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Primrose Retirement Community in Zanesville. She was born Wednesday, June 22, 1932, in Minster, the daughter of Charles and Bertha J. (Eicher) Oldiges. She married Ted Echemann on Saturday, May 1, 1954, who preceded her in death on Monday, May 2, 2011.
She was a dedicated long-time member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. While raising her five children, Shirley went to work part time for Sears, retiring following 22 years of service. Following her retirement from Sears, she continued her passion in volunteer work with St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Good Samaritan Hospital in the Surgery Lounge, and the Carr Center Cake Auction. She was an avid reader, and enjoyed playing Euchre. She along with her husband enjoyed travel across the United States and Europe. Shirley was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, who greatly enjoyed the time she spent with her family.
Shirley is survived by five children, Nancy (David) McVicker of Spokane, WA, Mike (Chris) Echemann of Millersport, Jerry Echemann of Martins Ferry, Jane (Chase) Johnson of Zanesville, and Wendy (Kim Hickman) Blosser of Queen Creek, AZ; ten grandchildren, Ted (Kimberly) Echemann, Claire (Chris) Davis, Erin (Sean) McManus, Amelia (Travis) Roberts, Mary (Ryan) Holladay, Austin Echemann, Spencer Echemann, Jenna Johnson, Caroline (fiancée R.J. Hindel) Johnson, and Andrew Blosser; eight great children, William and Benjamin Davis, Aubrey Echemann, Brody Echemann, Taylor Echemann, Anna Roberts, Olivia Roberts and Michael Holladay, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of over 57 years, Ted Echemann, and one brother, Eddie Oldiges.
Friends may call Friday, January 30, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 144 North Fifth Street, Zanesville, with Fr. Stephen Ondrey as celebrant. Shirley will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in Mt. Olive Cemetery. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.
