Wendy Lou (Will) Shalifoe, 73, of Twin Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, after a courageous three-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on February 7, 1952, in Shelby, Michigan, Wendy was the daughter of Richard and Donna (Critchett) Will. She graduated from Whitehall High School in 1970 and, the following year, married her high school sweetheart, Andrew Shalifoe. Together, they raised three daughters.

Wendy's life was defined by her passion for learning and educating. After raising her children and working in the business world, she followed her heart into education, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Grand Valley State University. For over eighteen years, Wendy inspired young minds as a Kindergarten and First Grade teacher for Whitehall District Schools.

Even after retirement, Wendy never stopped teaching. Known affectionately as "Grandma Wendy," she volunteered in classrooms at Whitehall and with the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County, using puppet shows to teach children about personal safety. She also championed child and adult literacy through her work with Read Muskegon.

Wendy's greatest joy was her family. She cherished time with her grandchildren, fostering their love for reading and instilling in them the life skills of empathy and compassion. Her home was a warm, welcoming space where everyone felt loved and accepted. Wendy had a gift for making people feel special—whether through a thoughtful gesture, kind word, or simply her radiant smile. She was a lifelong Wolverines fan, cheering on University of Michigan football with pride and excitement every season.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Andrew; her children, Jennifer Shalifoe, Catherine (Nick) Shalifoe-Wallace, and Kelly (Nathaniel) Lyons; and her grandchildren, Flynn, Piper, Charlotte, and Penny Wallace. She is also survived by her siblings: Gary (Lori Blair) Will, Mark (Mary Kay) Will, David (Karla) Will, James Will, Daniel (Judi Searing) Will, and Joni Will. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Donna Will, and her grandson, Indiana Wallace.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Lebanon Lutheran Church, 1101 S. Mears, Whitehall, MI. A memorial service will follow on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the same location, with Pastor Doug Ogden officiating.  A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lebanon Lutheran Church or the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com