Florence T. Shen

Florence T. Shen, 85, of West Lafayette died peacefully on Aug 18, 2017 in her home. She was born December 18, 1931 in Shanghai, China, the sixth daughter of Dr. Ching-Long Kao and Helen Ya Yuen Kao. Florence immigrated to the United States in 1948 as a high school student. She finished high school at Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin. She started her college education at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated with a BS in Microbiology from University of Illinois. In 1953 she married John Shen, the love of her life, who predeceased Florence by two years.  They were inseparable partners for 62 years. 

Florence spent her professional career at Purdue University in Bacteriology research. She retired from Purdue in 1975 and was a business partner with her husband John for the remainder of her life.

Florence was a devoted mother and wife.  Her first thought was always for her children or husband. She was a generous sister and aunt, a kind fair employer and a beloved friend. Her sweet gentle nature belied a sharp intellect and eye for detail, which allowed her to excel at the complex bookkeeping necessary for the family business.   She was a self taught seamstress and a self taught cook whose many delicious and unique recipes are being passed down. Her green thumb blessed her family and friends with gardenia and orchid blossoms galore. What will be missed most is her even temper and cheerful sense of humor.

Florence was happiest when with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a loyal John Purdue Club Member and avidly followed Purdue football and basketball. Florence was a member of Federated Church of West Lafayette.

Florence is survived by her three children, Pauline Shen (Robert Wild), Frances Bubalo (Joseph Bubalo) and William Shen (Liesl Shen).  Florence was particularly fond of her seven grandchildren, Oliver, Hayley, Jacob, Rachel, Henry, John and Arden and two great grandchildren, Alexis and Avery.  Preceding her in death is one grandchild, Nicholas Shen Beers.

Visitation will be from 11:00AM until the time of the service at 12:00PM on Saturday, August 26, 2107 at Federated Church, 2400 Sycamore Lane, West Lafayette. Rev. Dr. Gary Reif and Pastor John Williams officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Federated Church in Florence’s memory.