Shirley Saunders

MRS. SHIRLEY MAY SAUNDERS (nee WEISS) of Magrath, beloved wife of the late William Saunders, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2009 at the age of 79 years.

Shirley was born in Magrath and raised on the family farm in Del Bonita. She graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1952 from the General Hospital in Winnipeg. She married soon after and continued to nurse as she raised her three sons. She returned with her family to the Del Bonita farm in 1965.
As well as being a busy farm wife, Shirley remained active in the health care field, nursing in Magrath and later serving on the hospital board of directors. She enjoyed volunteering with the Brownies, where she was affectionately known as Cookie. When she and Bill retired from farming and moved to Magrath, she became passionate about the need for a local Handibus service and worked tirelessly at fundraising to make it a reality and keep it operating. Shirley was a regular at the local golf course, but perhaps she will be best remembered for her talents as a seamstress. She was a marvel with all aspects of sewing, creating everything from doll clothes to lavish wedding dresses; and she toured the province teaching upholstery classes.

In later years, breathing difficulties led Shirley to move to the Diamond Willow Lodge, where she remained active and had many friends. More recently, deteriorating health forced her move to the Good Samaritans facility in Magrath, where she passed away on March 13th.

Left to mourn are Shirley's three sons; Robert (Linda), James (Helen), and Kenneth (Janet); and her grandchildren, whom she adored; David, Michael, Daniel and Sarun.

Following Shirley's wishes there will be no service, but the family wishes to thank all those who cared for her so compassionately, particularly Sharyn Gold who was like a daughter to Shirley. Those wishing to make a donation in remembrance are asked to consider the Magrath Handibus Association, Box 567 Magrath, AB T0K 1J0.