Shirley Ann Lester

Shirley was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She had a way of bringing people in with a true generous soul and giving spirit. She was a bold woman with strong integrity. She will be forever remembered for her sick sense of humor and ability to connect with people around her.

Shirley was born to Regina (Ott) Spier and Herman Spier in St Cloud, MN October 18, 1946. She attended Technical High School graduating in 1965.

Shirley joined the Army starting her career in Fort McClellan, AL. The Army took her all over the world including Seattle, Paris, Kentucky, Indiana, Germany, Texas and the pentagon. Shirley reached the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). Her passion in the military was recruiting and empowering women in the Women’s Army Corps. This resulted in her gathering many meritorious service commendations over the course of her career.

After retiring from the Army, Shirley settled in Mesa, AZ and started a career with the US Postal Service and retired as a supervisor at the Falcon Field office.

In her most recent years, Shirley ventured to the DAV East Valley Chapter 8 looking for a way to reconnect with other veterans as a sort of therapeutic adventure. She came to love being at the Chapter, always looking for ways to improve what they do and be more involved. She became a fount of good ideas and one who followed through with actions and not just words. She truly strived to help her fellow veterans.

Many hobbies and activities filled her life: she was an avid crafter and seamstress, animal lover, garage sale devotee, and family historian. Ever curious about the world around her, she was also fond of hearing local gossip.

Shirley is survived by her daughter Rebecca Cochran (Jeromee Janicki), grand-daughter Tylee Janicki; Nichols family whom she loved as her own. Multiple life long friends and neighbors that was a true testament to the power of friendship. She will be missed deeply by many whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Caroline Schefers; brothers Richard Womaski, Wendelin Schefers, Joseph Schefers, Jim Spier; and multiple angel babies who are waiting for her on the other side.

There will be a memorial service at Mariposa Gardens, 400 S Power Rd, Mesa AZ, Monday, April 14 at 11:00. Friends may leave memories, photos, and condolences may be shared below using the Add a Memory link.

We invite you to contact the staff of Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park & Funeral Care for questions or comments.