She was born on March 20, 1928 in the small town of Froid, Montana, to Elmer Strandlund and Erna Haase Strandlund. She attended elementary & high school, graduating from Froid High School...Yay Cardinals! The following year took her to Montana State College, hoping for a career in nursing.
During the summer, Shirley met Ned, her future husband for the next 68 years, who was attending Montana State College. Between studying and dating, she was engaged by May, getting her MRS degree in August! Yes, August 22, 1948, was the wedding of Shirley Jeanne Strandlund and Ned Erven Wagner on her family farm in Froid, Montana. Her career changed from nursing to family, following farm life to city life, when they moved to Winston, Oregon, in 1953, when Ned pursued his career in Education. Then, another move to Lake Oswego and onward to Beaverton in 1965. She was in Toastmistress, PTA, and cheerleading at all her sons games besides being the stay-at-home MOM for her children. The most important role in her life was instilling Christian values in her family by being active in attendance at Beaverton Christian Church for over 60 years!
Shirley is survived by 1 daughter, Raelyn Blank (Bill), and 4 sons,
Kernan Wagner (Carla), Layton Wagner (Brenda), Verlin Wagner (Sue) Quintin Wagner (Debbie) and 11 grandchildren, Kate Fox, Kit Wagner, Kirsten Warren, Joel Wagner, Brandon Wagner, Benjamin Wagner, Melanie Finkle, Kyle Wagner, Christopher Blank, Nicholas Wagner, Mitchell Wagner, and 14 + great-grandchildren.
Shirley is predeceased by her husband, Ned Wagner, 2 siblings, Harlow Strandlund, Doyle Strandlund, and one son, Neldon Wagner.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Beaverton Christian Church in Beaverton Oregon.
