Obituary of Shirlee Sandra Harrison

Shirlee Harrison passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2009 at the age of 70 years, after a brief illness. Her courage and strength during her short battle was awe-inspiring to witness by all the family and friends who shared the final weeks of her life. Shirlee was born in The Falls in Colchester County, Nova Scotia. Shirlee’s sense of adventure brought her to Calgary in 1960. Here she met Wilf and they were married in 1963. At the age of 40, after working in a variety of jobs, Shirlee’s creative talents saw her leave the traditional path and she started her own business as a gifted artisan. She was very well known in the local artisan community and both she and Wilf shared a great deal of fun, laughter and wonderful memories with all those they met. Any four legged creature always stole Shirlee’s heart and her home was filled with pictures of those who touched her life throughout the years. She loved to travel and realized a dream when she celebrated her 70th birthday in Africa last year. She was fortunate to visit many countries over the years and if there was an abundance of sunshine, she always came home with an amazing tan. Meeting people who shared her zest for life and sense of humour was always a highlight for Shirlee. If they loved to dance, that made them even more special and Shirlee was quick to lead them to the dance floor. Shirlee’s exceptional and individual sense of style always brought an array of compliments from those who knew her and even from those who didn’t. She defied her age and filled her life with fun, family, friends, humour and music. Shirlee was a special person who will be missed by many. Shirlee is survived by her sisters, Doris Just of Kelowna, B.C.; and Della MacKay of Charlottetown, PEI, as well as many friends who loved her. She was predeceased by her husband Wilf, who passed away on December 10, 2006; and her parents Hazel and John Hawkins. Shirlee’s last few weeks were made a little more bearable thanks to an exceptionally special group of Doctors, Nurses and staff on Unit 3 of the Foothills Special Services Centre. The family would also like to thank everyone at the Sarcee Hospice for their kindness and care. “Dance like no one is watching Live life like it’s heaven on earth” Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes in Shirlee’s honour may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2C 2T7, Telephone: (403)205-4455, www.calgaryhumane.ca. In living memory of Shirlee Harrison, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.