Lois Shell, 86, of Marathon, Florida — beloved mother, grandmother, sister and aunt — passed away peacefully among family and close friends on April 18, 2021.
Lois was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Leon “Cappy” Shell, her parents Walter and Mary Immesberger, brother Walter and his wife Jean Immesberger.
She is survived by son Lee (Dorie) Shell of Highlands, New Jersey; son Larry of Rhode Island; daughter Laura of Port Townsend, Washington; and grandchildren Michael and Erin Shell. Lois is also survived by brother Jim (Anne) Immesberger of Stuart, Florida; sister Pat (Dick) Johns of Naples, Florida; sister Maryann (Mark) Zurich of Port Salerno, Florida; many nieces and nephews; and good friends DJ, Suzie, Pat and Don, Wayne, Paul, Gerry and Bethann.
New Jersey natives and teenage sweethearts, Lois and Leon were long-time residents of Highlands, New Jersey, where they bonded over a shared love of each other, life and the love of fishing. Their shared passion led them to take their charter fishing boat and launch a new phase of their lives. Seeking year-round warm weather, the couple made the decision to relocate to Marathon, Florida in 1978. Balmy weather, blue waters and palm trees opened up a whole new life with both old and new friends. Leon soon established himself as a talented captain and fishing lure designer, creator and founder of “Leon Lures.” Together Lois and Leon would work at their patio workshop making lures popular among fishing captains. After Leon’s passing in 1997, the community enveloped Lois with love and support. May her legacy last forever: “Live Like Lois.”
The family will plan a Celebration of Life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys.
