Shirley L. Burgert (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Shirley Louise Burgert, a beloved resident of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025. Shirley was born in Springfield, Missouri, on July 16, 1944 to Arthur and Verna Sell. She graduated from Shawnee Mission North High school in 1962. She went on to marry the Love of her life, Cecil, in 1980. Shirley was a lifelong resident of Kansas City, Missouri. She spent her final year surrounded by her family in Harrisonville. Shirley’s professional life spanned 44 years at Shelton & Sons, where she retired on September 18, 2020. Her hobbies included enjoying puzzles, supporting the Kansas City Chiefs, and listening to her favorite artist, Elvis Presley. During Chiefs games, she would become engrossed in the game and would not respond to calls or inquiries. She watched them win multiple Super Bowls throughout her life and she was so proud. Shirley cherished spending time with her family and friends and was known for her warm hospitality and love of food. Despite not having children of her own, she nurtured a deep affection for her nieces, nephews, and their children. Shirley’s distinctive personality, characterized by her wit and humor, left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Surviving her are her siblings, Evelyn O’Dell (Richard) and Gilbert Sell. She is also survived by her nieces, Debbie Rapp (Joe), Brenda Crabtree (Rick), Johnna Schernikau (Don), Dee Baxter Decker, Kelley Metcalf and Cheryl Folsom (Mark). Sister-in-law, Mary Sell. Her nephews Andrew O’Dell, Dennis (Marsha), Darryl (Karen) and Daniel (Lacey) and several great and great-great nieces and nephews. Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Clyde (Cecil) Burgert, parents, Arthur Gilbert Sell and Verna Cordelia Slagle Sell, brother, Leon Sell, and sister, Esther Schultz. All services for Shirley Louise Burgert will be held in private. The service will be conducted by Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. In her final few days, the biggest smiles were the ones she got from her latest greatest sweet niece Mabel May. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to those who made her final years on Earth filled with joy and significance. Shirley’s love and affection for all who knew her will forever be cherished.
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