Shirley Marie Kanning, 89, of Fort Wayne passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026, to her Lord and Savior. She was born on April 22, 1936, in Fort Wayne, a daughter to the late Elmer and Helen Buuck. She married Charles “Kent” Kanning, sharing 62 years together.

She found happiness in life’s simple and beautiful moments. Whether traveling to new places, enjoying a quiet afternoon at the lake, or gathering around the table for a game of cards, she created memories that will live on in all of us. She carried a quiet, unwavering faith that guided her through every season of life. She remained very actively involved in her church, Emmaus Lutheran Church.

Her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her. She taught us the importance of love, family, and faith—not just in words, but in the way she lived each day.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing her legacy lives on through the family she treasured so dearly. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Shirley is survived by her children, Steven (Susan) Kanning, Beth (James) Brackmann and Jill Kanning; 11 grandchildren, Phillip (Elisa) Brackmann, Claire (Ryan) Higman, Allison (Justin) Hanford, Stacie (Kevin) Gass, Stephanie Wyse (Randy, deceased), J.P. Eberbach, Bradley (Dani) Eberbach, Bryce (Mallory) Kanning, Hope (Wyatt) Kauffman, Teddie (Sam) Meyer and Josie Sauer; 20 great grandchildren, Keaton, Carson, Cohen, Brody, Lydia, Sawyer, Norah, Miranda, Walter, Phoebe, Lola, Cora, Stella, Connor, Carter, Brooke, Ellery, Emilia, Liam and Drew with one on the way; a brother Kenny Buuck and two sisters-in-law, Wanda Buuck and Barb Kanning.

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles, grandson, Ryan and several siblings.

Funeral Services are 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, at Emmaus Lutheran Church, 8626 Covington Road, with calling one hour prior, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Covington Memorial Gardens, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Preferred memorials are to Emmaus Lutheran Church.