Shirley Mae (Fruscello) Bute of Mendota Heights, Minnesota passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at the age of 96.

Shirley was born on March 1, 1929, in Saint Paul, Minnesota to Elsie Marie (Truhler) Fruscello and Michael Joseph Fruscello. She graduated from Monroe High School in Saint Paul, Minnesota where she participated in dance and baton twirling. Shirley married her beloved husband, Curt, in 1957 and they spent fifty-nine wonderful years raising their children and traveling the world together. Shirley was a life-long volunteer and she also loved bowling, golfing, and dogs. Above all else, Shirley found great joy in spending time with her close friends and family, including her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  She will be remembered for her kind heart, her curious nature, and her feisty spirit.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Curtis Bute.  She is survived by her children Paul (Julie) Bute, Ann (Paul) Palmer, Caren (Jeff) Fenske, and Thomas (Marnie) Bute; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, February 17 at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 1154 Seminole Avenue in West Saint Paul, with visitation one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Visitation School or Saint Thomas Academy in Mendota Heights, Minnesota.