The Elderon community is mourning the passing of Shelley J. Boda, who died on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the age of 73 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Her departure has left family, friends, and loved ones in deep sorrow, as they remember a woman whose life was defined by love, laughter, and devotion to those she cherished most.
Born on June 21, 1952, in Wausau, Shelley was the daughter of Raphael “Pat” and Jean (Larson) Gunderson. On August 2, 1986, she married John Boda at Zion Lutheran Church in Eland, beginning a journey of love and partnership that spanned decades. Together, they built a life filled with family, faith, and community, creating memories that will endure for generations.
Shelley found joy in the simple pleasures of life—gardening, feeding and watching hummingbirds, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a devoted fan of Wisconsin sports, cheering on the Badgers, Brewers, and Packers, and was a familiar presence at local baseball games, where her playful heckling of umpires brought smiles to those around her. In earlier years, she enjoyed softball and bowling, and she dedicated time to teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at Zion Lutheran Church, reflecting her commitment to faith and service.
Her greatest joy was her family. Shelley is survived by her husband, John; children, Rick (Cathy) Boda, Robert (Diane) Boda, and Rachael (Johnnoy) Boda‑Holness; five grandchildren, Whitney (Brittney) Boda, Briana (Eric) Bergsbaken, Brennan Boda, Kylee Boda, and Ryker Boda; one great‑granddaughter, Kinzlee Bergsbaken; siblings, Donna Gunderson, Peggy (Marty) Benes, Ray Gunderson, Wanda Gunderson, and David Gunderson; brothers‑in‑law, David (Debbie) Boda and Gregg Hugill; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Mark, her in‑laws Anthony and Laura Boda, and her sister‑in‑law Lynn Hugill.
Though her journey ended too soon, Shelley J. Boda will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and devotion to family and community. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg, with burial at Forest Home Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM until the time of service. May her soul rest in peace, and may her loved ones find comfort in the legacy of love and joy she leaves behind.