Shirley Wilma Dale

August 17, 1928 -June 29, 2025

Shirley passed away at the incredible age of 96 at Royal Gardens Retirement Residence, Peterborough, Ontario. She was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, where she lived until her retirement from a successful career as an Executive Secretary at Kraft Foods Canada. During those years in Montreal, she met her husband William "George" Dale, and they were married in 1954. Upon their retirement, Shirley and George moved to Peterborough, where they enjoyed their new community and life among many new-found friends. They had 45 wonderful years together until George passed away on June 30, 1999. She is also predeceased by her two sisters, Margaret Round (Bill) and Maureen Johnston-Main (Frank) and their spouses.

Marked by a spunky, fiercely independent streak, Shirley had a mind of her own, and certainly the courage and inclination to speak her mind whenever she considered it necessary or appropriate. And that was often! Shirley was a woman of strong faith and convictions and had been a long-time member of All Saints Anglican Church. She was seasoned by a love of life and had a wicked sense of humour that was unique, and, more often than not, downright mischievous. She was a whip-smart, generous and caring woman who liked to have fun and was recognized fondly as someone who was quick to roll up her sleeves and work with others to make good times happen. Whether that meant taking part in her church's popular Easter egg fund raiser, where she was entrusted with the very important job of measuring the icing sugar, or entertaining fellow Royal Garden residents at the piano before dinner each evening. More recently she could be found tucked away at one of the various pianos placed around Royal Gardens, at random times during the day, playing for her own private pleasure.

Shirley will be sadly missed by many beloved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and very special cousins. She will also be fondly remembered by many special friends who considered her a member of their family. Many thanks also go out to the staff who cared for her at Royal Gardens.

As per Shirley's wishes a private family interment has been entrusted to Rosemount Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Peterborough Humane Society or Kawartha Food Share in honour of Shirley would be appreciated. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.comstockkaye.com