SHIRLEY FRIEL

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive, well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, cigar in one hand, (Lemon Hart and coke) in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming, ‘WOW - What a ride!’"

Well, that pretty much sums up the life of Shirley Marguerite Friel (nee Parsons) who “skidded in sideways” on July 13, 2008, at her home in Moose Jaw, SK, in the arms of her children. Shirley was born January 20, 1923, in Smiths Falls, Ontario, the youngest of five daughters. At the insistence of her forward-thinking mother Hattie Mae, who felt that women should have some form of post-secondary education, Shirley trained as a nurse, then boarded a train, and moved west for adventure.  In post-war Comox, BC, she met and married George (Joe) Friel, and they would later settle in Moose Jaw, SK, Joe’s hometown, to raise their four children. Shirley truly was a woman before her time. Spirited, stubborn and fiercely independent, she insisted upon using her education, and, indeed, every morning, Shirley would go off in her whites, waving her arm in the air, tossing casually over her shoulder that she was "off to save lives."  Some of Shirley’s fondest memories include working Maternity at the Providence Hospital and serving as administrator of the Moose Jaw Union Hospital Central Supply for many years.  And some of her strongest life-long friendships were forged in these two hospitals where, during coffee breaks, Shirley and her hospital pals would solve some of the world’s more pressing issues, cold-cases, and other of life’s mysteries. Then, off she would go with Dad's STI crowd, her steadfast friends during Dad's lifetime and throughout her thirty years as a widow. Shirley is predeceased by her husband Joe, her mother and father, her four sisters, and her granddaughter Sarah Robertson.  She lives on through her four children, eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren: Jon (Marg Fowler), Dustin (Emily Springer and Daniel and Lydia) and Scott (Margaret Lilley and Elizabeth and William); Joanne (Grant Robertson), Clark, Lee, and Ford; Mark (Shirley McCullough), Christy (Kwartei Glover-Quartey and McKenna) Jana, and Chad; and Dawn (Don Hipperson), Jaimee (Cory Larson and Reid and Josh), Kathryn (Chad Bankowski and Noah and Avery), and Greg (Leah Foulds).  Shirley also lives on in the memories of her sisters-in-law, including Mom’s special friend and sister-in-law Doris Legge, and nieces and nephews.  It has been said that "the path to a friend's door is never long."  Our Mom was a shining example of one whose doorway path was very short and very busy.  A thank you note sent to Mom just before she died perhaps explains best.  Mom’s friend wrote, “Every time we have been with you, it has been a bundle of fun and the challenge of wits always makes me smile and grin.” We, Big Shirl’s family, continue to learn daily that our Mom cut a wide swath in terms of those who call her “friend,” and we take great pride and comfort in this. We invite all who knew Shirley to join us at 3:30 on Friday, July 18th, 2008, at W.J.Jones & Son Chapel to celebrate and honour her life. Linda Owens will be the celebrant. In lieu of flowers, Mom has gratefully asked that you please consider donating in Shirley’s name to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation - Women’s Ward or Day Surgery. In living memory of Shirl, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home.   

Guest Book

Horsnall Family: Horsnall Family: To the Friel Family...the obit sums it up completely and brings a smile to our faces as we remember Shirley.  She was our mom, Sally's, best friend and she will miss her dearly.  We remember the times many years ago we, the kids, would ride our bikes down to her house on 7th Avenue and enjoy the pool.  She will remain in the Horsnall's hearts forever.  May you rest in Peace!  Ron, Sally, Rod, Gwen, Cheryl, Kevin, Jeannine and Jeff

Shirley Figley: To Joanne, I was sorry to learn that your Mom had passed away.  Just talking with you recently about her, I know that her health had been failing however, it is always difficult when the end finally arrives.  How fortunate that you were able to spend a lot of time with her and I also recall how close you have always been.  Thinking of you at this difficult time. Shirley Figley

Michelle and Kevin Bankowski - Humboldt, SK: Dear Dawn, Katherine, and Shirley's entire families, We were saddened to hear about the passing of your Mother, Grandmother and friend. We hope your cherished memories of dear Shirley, bring you great comfort and the support of family and friends help ease your sadness at this very difficult time. We were very fond of Shirley and we will miss her smile, wit, charm and of course the Rum and coke visits.  Kevin and I regret that we are unable to join you in the celebration of Shirley's life. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Our Deepest Sympathy, Michelle and Kevin Bankowski

Marlene Hall: There is a reason I have been thinking of you lately Dawn, and now I know.  I am so sorry to hear about your mom's passing.  Joanne, I also have you in my thoughts and reflect on how much you look like your mom - she obviously passed on lessons about living life with joy, laughter and enjoying the finer things of life!! Wishing the whole family strength and comfort from the messages and stories that will be shared to commemorate the life of your wonderful Mom in her many roles.  We all come to realize sooner or later that there is no love greater than Mom's and what a blessing that is.  My thoughts are with you. Marlene

Don and Mary Thompson - Calgary, AB: We would like to send our condolences to Shirley's family...She was a joy to know and I am sure that Heaven's inhabitants will know she has arrived.  

Jim Cawsey: My thoughts and prayers to Mark, "Little" Shirley, Jon, Joanne, Dawn and all of their respective families. Many a memorable moment and good times were had with "Big" Shirley. As per the obituary, she indeed lived life to her fullest and shared a lot of joy with others. She gave a terrific
amount to my mother and we will always be thankful for those gestures of concern and kindness. May this day be filled with much humour and good memories! All the best, Jim Cawsey

Bill Harris - Moose Jaw, SK: Hi Jon, Learned of your mother’s recent passing and extend my condolences to you and your family. We just interred my dad’s cremains two weeks ago, so I understand the emotions being experienced at this time. Life is not a destination, but rather a journey and it is obvious that your mom experienced quite the ride! Sincerely, Bill Harris

Jim Gowans - Victoria, BC: To Shirley’s family: Please accept my condolences regarding the recent passing of your Mother, Grandmother, mentor and friend. My Mom and Dad, Irene and Jack Gowans were friends of Joe and Shirley in Moose Jaw. They had a ball and so did I watching them. We moved to St Albert, Alberta in 1964 and their friendship remained as much fun as ever. They laughed together so much. Mom visited Shirley after Joe passed away. Their embrace, tears and sorrow is an image of love that still remains with me. Your quote, “Wow – what a ride!” in The Star Phoenix Obituaries last week summed up my memories of Shirley. She was a wonderful mentor for living life to its fullest and always found a way to find the best in us all. My Mom is now in a full care nursing home in St Albert with dementia. She does not remember much of anything but remains happy. Shirley and Irene’s friendship was a wonderful memory to learn from them both about unconditional love. Best wishes to you all, Jim Gowans

Lori Bowden

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