Tribute

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Shireen Stella Redenbach (nee Saggau), who peacefully left us on March 8, 2025, in Oliver, BC, at the age of 91.

Shireen was born on the family farm on November 1, 1933, in Ceylon, Minnesota, as the youngest of nine children to Ella Marie Saggau (nee Bremer) and Andrew Martin Saggau. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sieg, and all her siblings—five brothers and three sisters.

As a young woman, Shireen made a significant mark in her professional life, working as an executive assistant for the FBI in Minneapolis, MN, for ten years. This was a remarkable achievement at a time when it was not common for women to have careers of their own.

On June 8, 1966, Shireen married Siegmund Henry Redenbach, and together they were blessed with a loving partnership until Sieg’s passing on December 28, 2015. They raised three children: Ann Marie Redenbach, Nancy Kay Fish (Tom), and John Michael Redenbach (Krista). Shireen’s legacy lives on in her grandchildren: Teya Jamie (Tim, and great-granddaughter Adayla May), Iain John, Shireen Isabella, Emma Marie, Charlie Mae, and Gunnar David Siegmund.

Shireen’s Christian faith was central to her life. Raised in the Lutheran tradition, she married a Lutheran pastor and lived out her faith with grace, humility, and strength. She was comforted by the knowledge that she is now in the presence of Jesus, her Savior, and has been welcomed home. Her faith was a source of strength throughout her life, and it continues to comfort her family.

After starting a family, Shireen shifted her focus to creating a stable, loving, and fun home life for her children. She was a devoted mother, always putting her family first and nurturing her children with a safe and supportive environment. Known for her incredible sense of humor, Shireen brought joy to everyone she encountered. Whether through sharing a laugh or a witty remark, her infectious laughter and bright spirit made her a joy to be around.

For the final four years of her life, Shireen was a resident at Sunnybank Retirement Centre in Oliver. The family is deeply grateful for the skilled and compassionate care provided by Dr. De Vries and the staff at Sunnybank who made her final years comfortable and dignified. Their kindness and attention to Shireen’s needs will always be remembered with gratitude.

Shireen’s legacy is one of love and resilience. She was an independent, strong, and kind woman who deeply cared for those around her. She was especially close with her sisters, with whom she shared a unique and lifelong bond. She will be remembered especially for her love of family, her faith, her humor, and her warmth.

A celebration of Shireen’s life will be held in Osoyoos, BC, at Grace Lutheran Church on Saturday, May 10th at 11:00 am.

Please feel free to send or bring flowers to Grace Lutheran Church the morning of May 10th for the service or donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of BC.

Shireen will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory live on in the love she shared and the lives she touched.