Shirley Helene (Racine) Bartsch, 91

Shirley Helene (Racine) Bartsch passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on July 21, 2026, at the age of 91.

Shirley was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts and raised her family there. She later moved to Chicopee and was a resident at the Arbors, an assisted living facility in Chicopee. She spent her final years at the Hannah B. G. Shaw Home in Middleborough, Massachusetts. Shirley was the daughter of Armand and Marie Anne (Dostie) Racine. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert J. Bartsch; her brothers, Emile and René Racine; and her sister, Diane Darcy.

A devoted wife, loving mother, and dedicated homemaker, Shirley also spent many years serving the students of Holyoke as a valued employee in the Holyoke High School cafeteria. She was known for her warm heart, infectious smile, love of music and dancing, and the kindness and joy she shared with everyone she met. Her fun-loving spirit touched countless lives.

She leaves behind her children and their spouses: Sharon Laferriere, Albert Bartsch and his wife, Kathryn Parlin, Kevin Bartsch and his wife, Nanette Bergeron, and Keith Bartsch and his wife, Laly. She was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Shirley also had a special connection with her beloved nieces and nephews.

Our hearts are broken, but we find comfort in knowing her love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on in all of us. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. ❤️

Calling hours 9am - 10am on Friday July 24th at Barry Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton St. Holyoke, MA 01040

Mass at 10:30am at The Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton St. Holyoke, MA 01040

Burial at Saint Jerome Cemetery, Northampton St. Holyoke, MA 01040

Memorial Contributions may be made to activities at the Hannah B. G. Shaw Home, 299 Wareham St, Middleborough, MA 02346