Bernadine "Shirley" Panuska

Bernadine "Shirley" Panuska, known to her loved ones as Shirley, will be remembered by many for her kind spirit and unwavering dedication to her community. Born on April 10, 1933, in MD, she passed away on April 26, 2024, at the age of 91 in Sykesville, MD.

Shirley's life was filled with love and devotion to her family. Holding various roles in her local community. Shirley survived by her late husband Charles "Chuck" Panuska whom she shared a loving 61 year marriage with. She cherished her relationships, leaving behind her children Katherine Harlow (husband Jody), Keith Panuska (wife Kelly) and the late Charles Allan Panuska (wife Regina). Her grandchildren Joseph Panuska, Jennifer Panuska, Laura Blum, Jessica Jenkins, Zachary Harlow, Aubrey Breen, and Brandon Panuska. As well her 12 great grandchildren and sisters Arleen Wolf and Elizabeth Meyers.

Shirley was involved in various community organizations, such as the Girl Scouts, Eastfield/Stanbrook Civic Association, and the Dundalk 4th of July parade committee. Shirley became the 1st female member of the Optimist club. Chuck and Shirley, together, as a team, have dedicated their lives to the community of Dundalk. Shirley has held every position in the club and served as the Lieutenant Governor and twice the Governor of the Maryland/South Delaware district.

Public viewings will take place at Connelly Funeral Home of Dundalk on Tuesday April 30, 2024 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm and on Wednesday May 1, 2024 from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Our lady of Hope at 10:30 am on Thursday May 2, 2024, following a graveside service held at Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery.

As we prepare to bid farewell to Shirley, let us remember her remarkable legacy of service and compassion. May her memory continue to inspire us all to give back to our communities with the same warmth and dedication she exemplified throughout her life.