Noreen May Zehner, age 81, of Shelby, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly in her sleep on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at her home.
Noreen was born September 25, 1942 in Shelby to the late Paul and Florence (Dodge) Boudinot. A 1961 graduate of Shelby High School, later that year Noreen married Bill Zehner on October 7. Together they raised their own family in addition to numerous others along the way who also shared in calling Noreen “mom” and “grandma.” Noreen was never happy unless she was caring for others. She helped numerous elderly friends who needed care, something that came naturally for Noreen, and was always willing to take in anyone in need of a safe and loving home. To them she offered not just advice and care but quite literally the roof over their heads. Noreen and Bill loved traveling, putting many miles on their Honda Goldwing motorcycle on trips all over the country.
Noreen lived for her family, especially her children and grandchildren. Her legacy of love lives on in all of them. In addition to her husband of nearly 63 years, Bill, Noreen is survived by her children: Cathy (Todd) Cronenwett of Shelby, Theresa (Jeff) Cronenwett of Shelby, Wendy (John) Moore of Shelby, Paul Zehner of Shelby, Jason (Samantha) Zehner of Plymouth, and Daneen Colligan of Indiana; 16 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; numerous others who caller her mom and grandma throughout their lives; her sister: Linda (Dick) Troxel of Georgia; in-laws: Tom Zehner, Dick (Linda) Zehner, and Pat Zehner; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends; and her faithful dog: Suzi. In addition to her parents, Noreen was preceded in death by her sister: Sandra Will.
Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 4-6 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at 2 pm. Pastor James Robinson will officiate the services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shelby Whippet Athletic Boosters, c/o Cathy Dodge, 145 Mansfield Avenue, Apt. #7, Shelby, Ohio 44875.
Condolences may be made on Noreen’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: www.PenwellFuneralHome.com