Shirley Zarich

Shirley (Haas) Zarich passed away on October 31, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, the city where her life began on December 19, 1942. She was 83.

A graduate of Wichita East High School, Shirley met and eventually married a young Air Force Airman Richard “Dick” Zarich. She worked many years in the banking industry from teller to bookkeeping supervisor.

Shirley will be remembered as a strong and spirited person who was devoted to her family.  As a lifelong member of St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church, she sang in the choir and volunteered for a wide variety of church activities for over 40 years.

Shirley’s pride and joy were always her sons Michael and Mark.  The boys found strong support from their mother.  Among many activities, they enjoyed family vacations either in Ohio or Colorado with her (and Richard).

Her pride and joy expanded with her grandchildren, and she became known lovingly as Baba.  These grandchildren enjoyed trips to Colorado and Sunday dinners made by Baba as they grew up.  Baba’s excellent chicken and noodles were everyone’s favorite.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving husband, Richard.  She is survived by sons, Michael Zarich and his wife Paula and Mark Zarich and his wife Becky.  She also leaves her seven grandchildren, Rachel, Alexa (Johnny), Hannah (Aaron), Jordan (Emily), Zac (Sarah), Leah, and Zac (Sydney); and nine great grandchildren.

Shirley’s life was a gift of faith, strength, discipline and steadfast love. She had a way of making people feel welcomed, and the memories she created will remain a comfort to all who knew her.

Trisagion & Funeral will be at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, 2026, at St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church. Graveside will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 6, 2026, at Wichita Park Cemetery.

A memorial has been established with St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church, 344 S. Martinson Wichita, KS 67213.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuaries — East Wichita.