1931 – 2024
It is with gratitude and thankfulness for a life
well lived that we announce that Shirley Marian
Kolanchey of Edmonton, formerly of Cardiff Echoes,
and St. Albert, Alberta passed peacefully into the
presence of her Lord and Saviour on January 22,
2024. She was predeceased by her deeply missed, beloved husband John; and
sisters, Elsie, Eleanor, and brother Keith. Shirley is survived by thirteen nieces and
nephews in Ontario, Saskatchewan, B.C., and Washington State, and many great
nieces and nephews.
Shirley was born in Edmonton on August 31, 1931, the youngest daughter of Elgie
and Julia Latta. She attended Eastwood, Parkdale, McDougall Commercial High
School, and Alberta College. In 1948, she began a fulfilling career in the business
office at the Edmonton Journal, that lasted over 40 years.
She had a passion for writing, especially human - interest stories and history, which
resulted in many published articles. Over the years, Shirley edited many newsletters,
notably for the Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship of Canada, and the Korean War
Veterans. She was a founding member of the Edmonton Inscribe Christian Writers’
Fellowship which is still active across Canada.
In July 1973, Shirley married John, a proud Korean War veteran. Throughout their
busy life together, their efforts made an impact on many people, especially our
veterans and their families. After their retirements, with Shirley’s encouragement
and assistance, John became a Chaplain for the Edmonton Korean War Veterans
and PPCLI: Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. Much credit was also due to
his cherished “bride” Shirley, when John received, in 2008, the Sovereign’s Medal
for Volunteers, and the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award for extraordinary
volunteer work with veterans.
An avid, award - winning swimmer herself, Shirley also taught swimming for
many years. She also enjoyed walking, travelling, golfing, and meeting people, and
could be found at her computer, which helped her keep in touch with family and
friends. Family was very important to her and she was the hub of connection and
information.
Shirley was an encourager and a loyal and caring friend who showed a spirit of
kindness to all. She had a strong Christian faith throughout her life. In her younger
days, she taught Sunday School for thirty years at Bethel Gospel Church and
Clareview Bible Church. With the help of other veterans, John and Shirley put on
church services at care homes, and Dickinsfield Extended Care for many years.
For the past 27 years, they enjoyed the fellowship at Beulah Alliance Church.
The family offers their sincere thanks to Shirley’s friends who, during her last years,
stepped in with much selfless care, assistance, support and friendship, and to the
staff at Cameron Heights and Lifestyle Options for their dedicated care of Shirley.
Shirley will be buried alongside her late husband in the Military section of the
Northern Lights Cemetery, 15203 Campbell Road, N.W. Edmonton, AB.
A Graveside Service will take place on February 10, 2024 at 10:30 AM followed by
a Memorial Service at 1:00 PM at Beulah Alliance Church, 17504 98A Avenue NW,
Edmonton AB T5T 5T8. All are welcome to attend both services.
The Memorial Service will be videotaped and posted to YouTube after the service.
Family members or close friends will be able to provide a link to view it.
In lieu of flowers, please send Memorial donations to Beulah Alliance Church Seniors’
Ministries, or Hope Mission, PO Box 953 9908-106 Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 2L8.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458 2222
