Shirley Brocato

GORHAM — Shirley (Pelletier) Brocato, 83, died due to complications from dementia on Wednesday, May 25, 2016, at the Gorham House.

She was born in Springvale to Charles Jean Pelletier and Helen (Stebbins) Pelletier on July 18, 1932. She graduated from Sanford High School, where she was a student scholar, active in many academic and sports programs.

Married to Robert Joseph Brocato on July 12, 1951, they loved, and devoted themselves to their marriage and seven children for 61 years. Robert lost his life to lung cancer on Dec. 2, 2012. With his death, Shirley lost part of her heart. Daughter, sister, wife, mother, gardener, quilter, cat-lover — she was all of these, her greatest passion being Bob’s wife. Bob and Shirley, Shirley and Bob.

Shirley lived most recently at Gorham House in Gorham, where she spread love and laughter. Known there as “Sweet Shirley,” her many favorite sayings and funny quirks will long be remembered and cherished.

She was predeceased by her three brothers, Leo, Paul and Rudolph; a son, Robert; and a granddaughter.

She is survived by her sister Anita Pelletier of Sanford; her children Joe Brocato of Waterboro, Julie Crandall of Windham, Anthony Brocato of Naples, Kathie LeBel of Westbrook, Maria Picher of Windermere, Fla., Lisa Latno of Westbrook and James Brocato of Somerville, Mass; her eight grandchildren; and by many loving nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren who filled her life.

Visiting hours were on Tuesday, June 7, at the Lafrance-Lambert & Black Funeral Home, 29 Winter Street, Sanford. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, June 8, at 10 a.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church. Burial followed at St. Ignatius Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at: www.blackfuneralhomes.com

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations in her memory to the Gorham House Scholarship, 50 New Portland Road, Gorham, ME 04038.