Shirley passed away peacefully at Cowichan District Hospital, Duncan; where she spent her final 3 weeks. She was able to remain in her home at Maple Bay until that time, as was her wish. Shirley was born at King’s Daughters Hospital in Duncan. Her maternal grandparents were William and Sarah Duncan. The city of Duncan was named after William. She was the niece of Kenneth Duncan the city’s first mayor. The Duncan’s homestead was where Sands Funeral Home now stands. She was baptized, confirmed and married at St John’s Church. She was a graduate of Nursing at Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria and served as a lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps during World War II in Britain. Mom returned and married David (he soldiered in Vernon and Vancouver) in 1945. He predeceased her in 1998. They lived in North Vancouver and retired early to Maple Bay in 1974 (her sister Joyce died that year).
She is lovingly remembered by her children Brenda (Ashley; son Gavin), North Vancouver; Robin, North Vancouver; Cathie (Jim) Kamloops; John (Shauna) Maple Bay. Granddaughters Tamara, Natalia and Taylor; grandson Shawn (Laurel) and many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. Over the years Shirley was very active with the garden club, art club, Cowichan Lodge, her church, pastoral care and the Legion. She loved entertaining and the tea pot was always ready.
Many thanks to Dr Gilbert, nurses on the second and third floor of the Cowichan hospital and mom’s special friend Vicki Halme.
In lieu of flowers a donation may be sent to the Alzheimer Society or C.N.I.B.
A memorial service will be held at 1pm Saturday Oct 3rd at St John’s Anglican Church, 486 Jubilee Street, Duncan, BC; with Reverend Clara Plamondon officiating.