Shirley Anne Russell

Shirley was born on Friday, September 3, 1937 in Winnipeg, Manitoba and moved with her family to a farm on the river in LaVallee. In 1940 the family moved to Fort Frances where she has resided ever since.

Her musical talents revealed themselves at a very early age and soon Shirley was taking voice and piano lessons. At the age of eleven, she started taking violin lessons. Her natural talent in this area is well- remembered by longtime residents of the district. Her dedication to her craft was rewarded by trophies and scholarships every time she performed at music festivals. Shirley is remembered for being the first Rose Bowl winner for Instrumental Music.

Shirley shared her musical gifts with performances at local service clubs and banquet halls until graduating from high school. As well, as part of a local quartet, she played in various local venues.

Shirley retired from teaching in 1991. For most of her thirty-four years, Shirley taught the students at Robert Moore School. In all but her last few years, Shirley’s teaching career was dedicated to the area of special education.

After receiving her teaching diploma, Shirley spent many years taking off-campus departmental courses. She earned her BA with a major in Sociology from Lakehead University.

Throughout her teaching career, the ukulele played a prominent part. Many students benefitted from her love of this instrument.

Shirley was a supportive member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church from childhood. She was a member of the Redwing Rebekah Lodge #109, and “Evergreen Chapter” of the Order of the Eastern Star. She also served as Treasurer for the Elementary Teachers’ Bargaining Unit for fifteen years.

Shirley had a great love for dogs of all kinds; she had a preference for terriers, and owned several during her lifetime. She also worked for the Fort Frances Kennel Club for many years as Treasurer.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at Rainycrest in Hallett Hall on Monday, July 23, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. with Reverend Dianne Clifford officiating.

Donations in Shirley’s honour may be directed to the Dialysis Unit at Riverside Healthcare Facilities or to a charity of your choice in care of Green Funeral Home, Box 427, Fort Frances, Ontario P9A 3M8

On-line condolences may be made in care of www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com