Shirley passed away suddenly at her home on September 10, 2012. She was born in Nelson and was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth and Russel Cole, and brothers David and Bruce. Shirley is survived by sisters Yvonne and Cheryl, brothers Randy and Brian, daughters Kassi, Rhea, Raini and Krista, and grandchildren Sage, Tyson, Keegan, Cedar, Taia, Bodi, Lexa, Larken, Bryden and Soleil.
Shirley wore many hats during her working years, waited tables, “car-hopped” at A&W, delivered newspapers, scaled log booms for KFP, was an operator for BC Tel, welded at Cominco and Fording Operations in the Elk Valley. Shirley retired after 30 years of service for the City of Nelson in 2009.
Shirley was dedicated to her family, friends and community, always being the first to volunteer when help was needed. Shirley loved adventure and would never turn down an opportunity to hike, bike, snowshoe or kayak. She was a member of: Scottish Country dancing, Red Hat Society, Kootenay Mountaineering Club, Canoe & Kayak Association, West Kootenay Naturalists and Country line dancing. Shirley enjoyed playing ball, curling, cross country skiing, windsurfing, scuba diving, water skiing and downhill skiing. Shirley loved playing cards, gardening, and wouldn’t pass up a chance to garage sale.
Shirley had a huge circle of friends and always made each and every one of us feel special and appreciated. We are so grateful that she has touched each of our lives in such a powerful and inspiring way.
Shirley was genuinely filled with joy and wonder, she had an amazing ability to embrace the world with open and loving arms. Her life is a testimony to living passionately every day.
A celebration of Shirley’s life was held on September 16th at the Nelson Curling Club. As an expression of sympathy, family and friends may make a donation to: Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation, Friends of the Family, or Nelson and District Womens’ Centre.