NAJAR – Shirley A. Najar of East Grand Rapids was called home August 7 2009 at the age of 78. She was preceded in death by her husband John Esa Najar; sister Evelyn Irwin; brother Robert Mooney. She is survived by her children Linda Najar of Ypsilanti Jimmy Najar of Grand Rapids John and Kathy Najar of Cascade Mary Najar of Ypsilanti Jerry and Linda Najar of Grand Rapids Michael and Susan Najar East Grand Rapids Louie and Rachel Najar of Cascade Joseph Najar of Grand Rapids; brother Ronald and Cindy Mooney; 10 Grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; Sister-in-laws MaryJane Shrauger and Jennette Najar as well as many nieces and nephews. As a child Shirley battled many illnesses. Her strength and perseverance in her younger years enabled her to become a strong and courageous mother of eight dedicated wife to an entrepreneurial husband and in her later years a great role model to young children while working in the cafeteria of East Grand Rapids Wealthy Elementary School. Even years after retirement former students would approach her commenting on the impact she had on their lives. In her later days her selflessness continued to shine through even as her body deteriorated while she silently battled cancer. She left this life peacefully surrounded by her loving children. Liturgy of Christian burial will be offered 11:00am at St. Stephen Church 750 Gladstone SE. Internment at Resurrection Cemetery. Rosary will be recited at 8:00pm. Visitation 2:00pm – 4:00pm and 7:00pm 9:00pm at the OBrien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel 3980 Cascade Rd. SE. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
