She is survived by her daughters Carly Somner (Ed) and Tanya Bemister (John), four granddaughters (Brielle, Lucy, Violet and Olive), brother Doug Martin (Lyn), sisters Joan Gibson (Al) and Linda Ellerman(Mark), as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband of 33 years, Steve Sywulych, and her Mother and Father (Alma and Al Martin).
Shirley was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1955, where she spent her childhood and teenage years.
In 1968 she began her career as an Air Canada flight attendant where she remained until her retirement in 1994, a total of 26.5 years of service. Travelling was her true passion and she visited many countries throughout her life.
She and Steve took lots of trips together including a windjammer cruise, rugby tour of Japan and a bus trip through Italy. They also visited Australia, the UK and many tropical destinations.
She was involved in numerous groups in the community, including being a member of the Deer Lake United Church, a leader of both of her daughters’ Girl Guide units and even ran the Miss BC pageant for one year. She was a member of the ‘Mighty Moms’ and was the founder of their book club. She was an active volunteer with Variety, enjoyed Polynesian dancing, social meetup group gatherings and plays at the Arts Club.
There are many things Shirley will be fondly remembered for, including her generosity, her vibrant personality, being a dear friend to so many and most of all her love for her grandkids.
A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, June 21st, at Deer Lake United Church with a reception immediately to follow at the Burnaby Lake Rugby Clubhouse. Please dress in bright colours to honour Shirley’s colourful and unforgettable spirit.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.11.1