Shelley June Ziegler

My name is Shelley Willits Ziegler, born June 2, 1953 to James & Maxine Willits in Great Falls, Montana. Besides my parents, I had two older sisters Beverly & Iris. I graduated from CMR and my most memorable event from school was the year our band was chosen to march in the Rose Bowl Parade. I stayed with a friend in Virginia for a year then returned home to Great Falls. Soon after; I met Ken Ziegler who was stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base and a few months later we were married. Our 25 year union produced twelve terrific kids; Stacey, Erin, Michael, Angela, Timothy, Julie, Charles, Thomas, Jason, Susan, Sarah, and Kevin. Currently there are about 40 Grandchildren and numerous great grands. After our marriage ended; I found work in sales, vending, and with agencies that provided support to senior citizens. My employment with the Barber National Institute in Erie, PA was an exceptional opportunity to develop and utilize my varied talents. The seniors who participated in our day program had intellectual disabilities and as we helped them reach their potential so they helped us reach ours. So, these are two of my 'loves': Family and Work. The other great pursuit in my life that offered tremendous meaning and reward was Christianity. As a student of the Bible, I felt compelled to live by and teach the gospel. While I've spent a lifetime learning patience, and often expected too much from others especially my family; I believe that the benefits I have received far outweigh the cost. There is no field of study more captivating than the way the human mind approaches spiritual concepts. Our understanding the value of faith affects greatly on how we perceive life and death. I hope for the best for all of you. To quote Abraham Lincoln "It's not the years in your life but the life in your years". While many adjectives may be used to describe me: colorful, odd, weird, and bossy... I prefer tenacious & optimistic.

With Love, Mom