It is with great sadness that the family of Shirley announce her passing at age 73 from cancer at the St. Albert Sturgeon Hospital on April 21, 2020.
Shirley will be greatly missed by her husband of 54 years, John; children, Sean Malcolm and Colleen Tkachuk (Rob) and much loved grandchildren, Shannon, Meghan, Elena, Cole, Cameron, Ryan and Brad.
Shirley was born and raised in Toronto and attended a local High School where she met John and they married in 1966. John was transferred to Edmonton in 1970 so the family, now with two children in tow, moved. We lived in St. Albert until 1975, then moved to Calgary until 1980 when we moved back to St. Albert.
Shirley worked as a receptionist for many employers over the years in both Edmonton and Calgary. Shirley always wanted to be a teacher but the opportunity did not materialize. In the past few years, she became involved with the ESL program in St. Albert. She enjoyed teaching new Canadians the English language and found great pride in her students who eventually learned and spoke enough English to get a job. Shirley’s biggest thrill was being invited to attend the new Canadian swearing in ceremony by her students.
Shirley loved to travel and went to Hawaii many times; California, Germany and the UK and many trips in Canada. She also loved to cook and entertain on St. Pat’s Day, to honour her Irish background. No one enjoyed New Year’s Eve more than Shirley; and a glass of wine was always ready on Friday night.
Shirley will be missed by many friends, old and new and also by her church family. We will love and miss you forever.
Due to the Covid-19 situation, the family has had a private cremation service, however, a celebration of life will take place at a later date.
During these trying times please make a gift of food or cash to the St. Albert Food Bank.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
