Shirley Ann Messere

It is with great sadness and sorrow that our Mom, Sister, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Aunt and mother-in-law passed away on Monday, Feb 17, Family Day ...which is quite ironic because "FAMILY" was a big part of her life.

Shirley was born in Port Alberni, BC and then moved with her family to Richmond, where she had many memories of friends, school and growing up there. She lived in Osoyoos with other family members for a while and worked at the packing plant.

Back in the Lower Mainland, she then met Johnny and had 5 kids, while fostering troubled teens. She had a big influence on them and with one in particular, Sandy, who kept in contact with the family for many years until her passing.

Shirley worked mink pelting in winters with Marilyn, Diane, Carol and many other ladies to make extra money for Christmas. Then, she worked at a door manufacturer with one of her best friends, Diane.

Shirley started work managing a fish plant, the only female manager on the Fraser River at that time and was very well respected. Here is where she met Richard and they married. They both shared a strong passion for business and enjoyed travelling together.

She then worked in dietary at Surrey Memorial Hospital for many years, making lasting friendships to this day. Then came retirement on the island in Parksville. She did many years of volunteer work, both on the island and also in Langley, meeting many great people along the way.

Her kids were the biggest part of her life; she would do anything for them, just by listening and giving encouragement and lots of tough love.

Knouff Lake, where one of her brothers Don and sister-in-law Gloria live, had brought many great memories and fun times.

Salmon Arm is where one of her other daughters live. She enjoyed many great times by being out on the lake and going up to help with garage sales, and also visiting with her other brother Jack and sister-in –law Carol.

Shirley lived many years enjoying her retirement on the island, where eventually one of her sons and wife moved, as well as where her youngest daughter and a grandson now live.

Langley is where she lived the last part of her life, she loved being close to her kids and spent many hours and days with them and the grandkids. She lived there on her own, working volunteer and with her other son driving her around when needed and having her baby cat Bella by her side till her passing. She lived a full and happy life.

She had many family and friends reach out with condolences and we would invite you to leave any memories or comments about Shirley below.

Please no flowers.