Shirley Ann MacArthur

It is with heavy hearts that we regret to announce the sudden passing of our mother Shirley (Mohler) MacArthur on October 28 at the age of 87. She was predeceased by her husband Pat MacArthur, her brother Dennis Mohler and her brother & sister in law Don and Marie MacArthur. Shirley will forever be lovingly remembered by her children Catherine (Laura), Patrick (Marian), and Shauna as well as her two grandsons Aidan and Cullen. She is also survived by her sister Patricia Smith and brother in law Austin Smith and her 8 nieces and nephews.

Shirley was born in Camrose on January 21, 1936. Growing up on the family farm she acquired many skills that she later passed on to her children, which included canning, gardening and baking. In high school, she was the editor of the school newspaper and played on the girl’s basketball team. It was on the basketball court that she first met her future husband Pat MacArthur as he was the referee that fouled her out of a basketball game.

After high school, Shirley went to the University of Alberta, School of Nursing and graduated with an RN in 1957. She later obtained a certificate in Teaching and Supervision from the University of Alberta in 1959. She continued working as a Nurse Instructor at the U of A Hospital from 1959 – 1962.

In 1960, she married Pat MacArthur and together they had 3 children. They enjoyed a rich and loving life for 46 years. Once they started their family, she decided to be a stay-at-home mom and an active volunteer in the Edmonton Community.

In 1970 Shirley became an active member of the Junior League of Edmonton serving on many committees. In 1979, she was the president of the Junior League of Edmonton and in 1981, was the Chairman of the Junior Leagues of Canada. From her association with the Junior League she honed her leadership and organization skills, but most importantly became a member of the illustrious Bridge Group. This group of ladies became lifelong friends and a strong support network during difficult times.

Shirley continued to volunteer in the Edmonton community as a board member and chaired many fundraisers: Alberta Ballet (Tea Dance), Alberta Art Gallery (Holly Ball Gala Fundraiser), U of A Hospital (Festival of Trees). In 1983, she co-chaired the Volleyball Venue for Universiade Games. In 1990, she was recognized by the Government of Canada for her volunteer work receiving the Canadian Volunteer Award, Certificate of Merit and in 1992 received the Commemorative Medal for 125th Anniversary for the Confederation of Canada.

After many years of volunteering, Shirley slowed things down and took many trips with Pat. Once her grandsons were born, she enjoyed spending time with them, at sporting events or family dinners. Every December Aidan & Cullen would help Grandma decorate the Christmas tree. Ornaments slowly moved up the tree as the boys grew older.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on November 6, 2023, at 1:00 pm at St. Thomas More Church, 210 Haddow Close NW Edmonton.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to your local food bank in Shirley’s name they are overrun with demands and mom never wanted anyone leaving her home hungry.