Shirley Ann Duane Alveal

Shirley Ann Duane-Alveal, 93, of Indianapolis, IN, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2023, among family members and friends. She was born December 23, 1929, in Indianapolis, IN, the daughter of the late Ellard Duane and Noelie Mary (Desobry) Duane. She was a longtime resident of Indianapolis.  Shirley attended Marquette University where she received her BS degree in Sociology and her master’s degree in social work from Our Lady of the Lake College.  She received her certification (ACSW) from the Academy of Certified Social Workers. Shirley is survived by her stepchildren, Marion Loreto Alveal (Chile); Bruno Alveal; Pete Alveal, Jr. (Andrea Lyon); her nieces and nephews, Sarah E. Heddon (Jim), Sharon M. Koomler-Grant (Jerry), Michael F. (Clare), Brian J., William D. (Alison), as well as many grand-nephews and nieces. She has numerous grandchildren and several great-grandchildren who affectionally refer to her as Mama Shirley.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Peter; her stepdaughter, Viviana Alveal; her parents, Ellard and Noelie; and her brother, Tom.

Shirley was known for her devotion to the Catholic Church, so much so that she entered the order of the Maryknoll Sisters on September 2, 1957, at Maryknoll Sisters Center, Maryknoll, NY.  She pronounced her First Profession of Vows on June 24, 1960, from Maryknoll, NY, and her Final Vows on June 24, 1966, also in Maryknoll, NY.  She received her first mission assignment as the Secretary to the Mother General.  She was later assigned to Santiago, Chile, in June of 1967.   She assisted many Central and South American countries during civil unrest and their many internal war-leading conflicts. Her valor and faith allowed her to serve many in need of faith and necessities during such uncertain times. She left South America and the Maryknoll Sisters on August 15,1974, after 18 years of service to the church.

After leaving the Maryknoll Sisters, Shirley moved back to the United States and married Peter Alveal, Sr., on July 28, 1975. Shirley and Peter were married for 46 years before Peter’s passing on August 27, 2021.

Shirley served as the Director of the Social Work department at Indiana University Hospital until her retirement in 1992. Shirley enjoyed traveling after retirement, taking many trips around the world.  Shirley was very active at St. Monica Church and heled found the Bereavement Ministry at St. Monica in the 90’s. She served on many other different committees, organizations and projects in the parish, as well as in the community and she participated in bible studies and assisted with many different activities within the church. Shirley was a generous donor, giving time and funds to many, particularly her beloved St. Monica parish.

Two good friends of hers adeptly put it by saying, “She showed us a lot by how she lived and how she talked to people and the things she did for others.”  The legacy that Shirley leaves with family and friends is love of God, love of family, having grit and determination, and having a great sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Maryknoll Sisters of St. Dominic, Maryknoll, NY and/or St Monica Catholic Church in Indianapolis, IN.

The funeral service will be held at St. Monica Catholic Church with viewing from 9:00 – 11:00, and the funeral Mass at 11:00AM on Friday, April 28,2023.  Live Facebook Stream broadcast will be available at St. Monica Indy.   Burial Services will follow at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery Indianapolis, IN.