In Memoriam: Shirley Zoeter Muckenthaler
Shirley Zoeter Muckenthaler, remembered for her charitable works, died Jan. 3 at home following a lengthy battle with cancer at the age 87. While many in Fullerton, California, know the name associated with Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton, which was built her husband’s family, countless individuals were touched by Shirley’s deeds and her spirit of giving.
Muckenthaler was born on east Amerige Avenue in Fullerton, less than three miles from her last residence. She attended Fullerton Union High School where she met her future husband, Harold Muckenthaler.
The couple was married 67 years ago on Valentine’s Day.In 1965, the Muckenthalers donated the 18-room mansion, built in 1924 on eight acres, to the city for the public to enjoy. Throughout their married life, Muckenthaler was active in the Muckenthaler Center Circle, Assistance League of Fullerton, Ebell Club of Fullerton, PTA groups and Girl Scouts, for which she served as a leader. “Mother was always a hands-on person, never in a leadership role,” Peggy Muckenthaler Albert said.
In addition to her husband and daughter, Muckenthaler is survived by another daughter, Kathy Riddle of Newport Beach, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her daughter, Sherryl Drayton. Donations in her memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society or the Muckenthaler Cultural Center.
McAulay & Wallace Mortuary in Fullerton handled the arrangements. Lynn Thornley is handling charitable donations on behalf of Shirley Zoeter Muckenthaler. Contact her at Lynn@TheMuck.org or 714-738-3134 if you would like to make a donation in her memory to the Muckenthaler Cultural Center Endowment.