Shirley Rose Fitch

BREMERTON, WA — Shirley Rose Fitch, beloved wife and mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to all, peacefully passed away on December 16, 2025, at St. Anthony Hospital in Gig Harbor, surrounded by the love and presence of her family. She was 93 years old. Born on her father's birthday, February 8, 1932, in Bandon, Oregon, Shirley was the oldest daughter of Ora and Alvin Combs. She grew up with her two sisters, Francis and Crystal, in a home filled with love and loyalty. Shirley's early years were influenced by post-depression America, being full of tough daily realities. But she was blessed with a loving family who gave her discipline and guidance, genuine affection and love, and an infectious, fun-loving spirit. As the oldest, she was the protector of her younger siblings in elementary school, when her Coast Guard family moved frequently. In 1951, Shirley graduated from Warrenton High School and married a young sailor named Duane Fitch on July 9th in Seattle, Washington. The two met while he was stationed at Tongue Point Naval Station, near Astoria. They were married for 67 years when Duane preceded her in death. While Duane served in the Navy, Shirley stood by his side, and the couple eventually moved to Washington State, where they would plant their roots and raise their family in Kitsap County. Shirley and Duane lovingly raised three children: Linda, Jim (with his wife Sherrie), and Tom (with his wife JoAnn), in a small home on the water. The house resonated with laughter and the aroma of Shirley's delicious pies, cinnamon rolls, and blackberry cobblers. She made the best pancakes, eggs, and fried potatoes, along with the best percolated coffee. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth, where family and friends gathered to share stories, play games, and enjoy her homemade treats. Shirley's culinary skills were matched by her talent in needlework, where her creations, especially a prize-winning embroidered quilt at the Kitsap County Fair, showcased her skill and artistry. In later years, she and her daughter Linda worked diligently during the spring and summer months, crocheting hundreds of stocking hats. Then fall and winter came, they took bags of hats and donated them to shelters for the homeless, street people to stay warm. A woman of Christian faith, Shirley and Duane were steadfast members of the Bremerton Church of God (in Gorst), where they dedicated their time to serving others, including participating in pancake breakfasts for the needy, faithful giving, and helping provide support for youth events and trips. Her community involvement extended to the friendships she fostered at the TOPS weight loss group and SK Western Little League. Her trademark laughter always let the people around her know that Shirley was present! Shirley's life was enriched by her love for gospel music and the great outdoors. She and Duane enjoyed many camping adventures, traveling across the United States and frequently visiting Oregon. Her life-loving spirit made her a joy to be around, as she loved meeting new people and shared her warmth with everyone she encountered. One couldn't remain a stranger around Shirley. Shirley is survived by her children, grandchildren (Deborah, Anja, Emily, Joseph, Jaime, Christine, and Michael), and six great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories of her unconditional love and giving spirit. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Cottesmore of Life Care in Gig Harbor and Retsil Veterans' Home for their compassionate care. In honoring Shirley's memory, let us remember her kindness and encouraging counsel, her joy, and the unconditional love she offered so generously. Her spirit remains as a memory for all who knew her, and she will be dearly missed but never forgotten.