Shelly L. Frantz

Shelly L. Frantz, age 58, of Battle Creek, peacefully passed away on June 3, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek. She was born on April 16, 1967, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Arnold A. and Gloria J. (Erdman) Heikkila. Shelly was a proud graduate of Harper Creek High School, class of 1985, and continued her education at Kellogg Community College. On December 5, 1987, she married Andrew “Andy” Frantz, who survives. Shelly is lovingly remembered by her four children: Casey (Sarah) Frantz, Karlie (Bryan) Leadendecker, Abbey Frantz, and Andrew (Bailey) Frantz, as well as her eight treasured grandchildren: Dilynn, J.J., Brayden, Addlie, Payton, Lucy, Jude, and Sloan. She is survived by her siblings, Mike Heikkila, Linda (John) Oechsle, and Tammie (Bill) Cronkhite; her parents, Arnold and Gloria Heikkila; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Shelly was preceded in death by her brother Gregory and her mother-in-law Ann Frantz. Shelly took great joy in being a devoted stay-at-home mother, nurturing and raising her children. As they grew older, she embraced her role at Grace Health, where she served as a surgery scheduler for many years. After her daughter Abbey became disabled, she selflessly devoted her time to caring for her full time, showing unwavering love, patience, and strength in the face of life's challenges. A valued member of the Bunco group known as the "Bunco Babes". Shelly cherished the friendships she formed over more than two decades. Her generous heart shone through in the thoughtful gifts she loved giving to those she cared for most. She also had a lifelong love of puzzles and trivia—whether it was crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, or game night challenges, she found true joy in problem-solving and the simple satisfaction of learning something new. One of her favorite pastimes was going to the movies; she cherished the experience of seeing new films and sharing them with those she loved. A Memorial Service to celebrate Shelly’s life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, where family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are entrusted to Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services. For more information, please visit www.henryfuneralhome.org. Shelly will be dearly missed by all who knew her and will be remembered for her kind heart and loving spirit.