Ila (Conners) Shenk, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor after a her long-term complications from cancer treatment. Ila was born July 17, 1935 in Marshall, Michigan. The daughter of Stella and Earl Conners. She lived her early life in Battle Creek where she worked as a long-distance operator for Michigan Bell Telephone, later AT&T, and attended classes at Nazareth College in Kalamazoo.

As a temporary secretary at St. Phillip Catholic Church in Battle Creek, she met her husband, Calvert Shenk, the liturgical and music director for the parish. Ila was a long-time alto in his choir. Throughout Cal's career, they lived in Milwaukee, WI, Birmingham, AL, and Dearborn Heights.

Although she did not have her own children, she delighted in caring for others, especially the Ryan boys; Peter, Daniel, and her godson, Michael and their respective children Noah & Isabelle, Madeleine, Mary Margaret & Rosemary.

Ila is survived by her brother, Kurt Conners and wife Lillian, brother-in-law Steve Briggs, nephew and niece, Matt Briggs and Janine Dalman, and their children. She was preceded in death by her parents, Stella and Earl Conners, sister, Nadine (Conners) Briggs, and husband, Calvert Shenk.

Viewing by family and friends will be held Saturday, May 7 at 9:30 am at Assumption Grotto Church at 13370 Gratiot Avenue, Detroit, MI 48205 followed by the funeral mass at 10:00 am. The burial will take place immediately following at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 25800 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48033.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the charity of your choosing.