Shelby J. Erdmann

Shelby J. Erdmann, 85 of Watertown, passed away on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at Heritage Homes in Watertown.

Shelby was born June 18, 1938, in Watertown, the daughter of Harold and Mabel (Schimelpfenig) Krueger. In 1958, she married John Erdmann at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Watertown. John and Shelby traveled for his work to Spain, Europe, and Hawaii and made many memories together. The couple shared nearly 60 years of marriage until his passing in 2019. Shelby worked for the telephone company as an operator, then at a local pharmacy. She was most proud of her work as a kindergarten teacher’s aide at Lincoln, Douglas, and later Schurz. Shelby was an excellent cook, something that was passed down from her mother Mabel. She enjoyed rug braiding and sewing in her spare time. Shelby served as a member of the alter guild at St. John’s for many years. Above all else, family meant the most to Shelby and she spent as much time with them as she could. Her grandkids meant the world to her, and they often traveled to spend time with her.

Shelby is survived by: her sons Kim (Joelle) Erdmann and Scott (Jodi) Erdmann; grandchildren Katie (Aaron) Schlott, Andrew (Mandy) Erdmann, and Kevin Erdmann; great-grandchildren August Schlott, Gwen Schlott, Beckett Erdmann, and Cooper Erdmann; sister Shirley (Wayne) Kuckkahn; sisters-in-law Donna Krueger and Margaret Krueger. Shelby is also survived by a number of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Shelby is preceded in death by her parents, husband John, and brothers Ralph and Dale.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 23, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Watertown with Rev. Timothy Mueller presiding. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Shelby will be laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Heritage Homes, or Rainbow Hospice would be appreciated by the family.