Shirley King

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mrs Shirley King who passed away peacefully at the Extendicare/Oakview Place in St. James, at the age of 96, after a lengthy illness. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Curtis and daughter Dayle (Ron) Johnson, along with her nine grandchildren; April (Paul) Calisto, Breanne Joseph, Brad (Amanda) Johnson, Brian (Joanne) Johnson, Andrew, Michael, Joanna, Josh and Danielle Johnson, along with six great-granddaughters: Ariana, Alyvia, Elaina, Tenley, Ava and Clara. Also, her sister-in-law Joan and family, and Shirley's nieces and nephews, Lynn, Linda, Wendy, Robert, Susan, Brenda, Willie, Sharon and families.

Shirley was predeceased by her loving husband, Ian King in August 1994, her brother Harold and his first wife Mary; second wife Ruth, sister Marguerite (Ritie), daughter-in-law Julie, brothers-in-law John and Bill, and sister-in-law Brenda & husband Bruce. She was also predeceased by nieces and nephews: Joy, Matt, Keith and Karen.

In the early years of her marriage, Shirley was employed by Eaton's Mail Order, after which, she became a full-time homemaker, caring for her two children. When her children were in their teens, she went to work for the Winnipeg School System as a teachers aide with the Language Disorder Program at the Fort Rouge and Gladstone elementary schools. She retired in 1987.

Shirley enjoyed her family, both near (Winnipeg) and far (Massachusetts, Florida and Michigan). She was noted for her love of animals, especially cats. She loved her times at the cottage at Lakeshore Heights on Lake Winnipeg, and also camping with her family - sometimes meeting up with her brother, Harold and his wife, Mary and their family at Algonquin Park in Ontario. She was a gifted crafter, and used her many talents decorating for school events and later, the St. James Senior Centre. She volunteered at the Grace Hospital and was present to help with their historic move to the present location in St. James. She enjoyed sewing - making clothes for her family and, in her later years she made many kitty quilts for various cat shelters. As she got older, she would go almost every day to Tim Hortons where she often met with friends for a 'cuppa' coffee.

Many thanks from the family go out to the staff of Actionmarguerite Personal Care Home and Oakview Place, as well as the Home Care Agency for their care for Shirley in these latter years.

In keeping with Shirley's wishes, she has been cremated. A family graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, if anyone wishes to make a donation, we know Shirley would appreciate donations to go to animal shelters, such as Craig Street Cats or shelter of your choice.

We love you, Mom, Grandma & GG

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.thomsoninthepark.com for the King family.