Mrs Van Leeuwen, thank you for the gentle way that you imparted your wisdom and for that magical year you shared Friar Tuck. I will never forget you, or the excitement of riding lessons in your beautiful ring at Woodlands Farm.

Jenifer and David Thompson,

Heartfelt condolences to you Peter, and your sons Simon and James and their families. Wishing you courage to cope and strength to continue on. We were long time neighbours within the DeWinton community where the Van Leeuwens resided. Shirley was truly a gifted woman, blessed with wisdom, generosity, a sharp intellect, an accomplished horse woman and a wonderful sense of humour. Whenever we knocked on the door at the Van Leeuwen residence, we were always greeted by Shirley's warm smile. We will treasure the memories of those visits and conversations at the kitchen table. Shirley was a cherished friend, supportive and caring. Her zest for life was undeniable. Gone too soon. We will miss you, dear Shirley..

It is with much sadness we learned about the loss of Shirley. She had a generous spirit and shared her joy of life with all of our family especially when we moved to DeWinton close to 40 years ago. Highlights for our family included buying “Be Good Miss” from her, a horse with a lovely disposition. Many years later Peter and Shirley agreed to allow our son and his new bride to have wedding pictures taken in their iconic barn. Our family sends our heart felt condolences to Peter and her family. She will remain in our hearts.

Brian and Diana Stevens

Mrs. Van Leeuwen taught me riding lessons when I was a teen in the mid-70's. She had a gentleness with horses that was rare in my limited experience and that I hope has coloured my interactions with horses (and people) in the decades since. A truly lovely lady. To Peter and the family, I am so sorry for your loss.

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to Peter and family. We have beautiful memories of Shirley from the many years that we have known her. She was a very kind and lovely lady and we will remember her fondly.

Shirley, rest in peace. Kind Regards, Henk Zwiers and family.

It is with great sadness that I learn of the passing of Shirley. A generous and warm hearted friend to whom I owe so much for her support and encouragement when i needed it the most. She will be missed. My sincere condolences to to her family, Peter ,Simon and Jamie at this sad time.

To Peter and family we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Shirley. Having been direct neighbours to Shirley and Peter for over 18 years, we have seen and shared Shirley's love for the wildlife we've had around here like the moose and bears.

We also shared Shirley's love of horses having built our horse farm right next door. Shirley has always been kind and respectful to us as neighbours and fellow horsemen. We wish you God's blessing in these difficult times.

To Peter and family, my memory is from many years ago as I often had business that took me to Weismose Furniture--it was a time I looked forward to and over the years meeting Shirley added yet another layer of kindness with such a beautifully soft voice that I have never forgotten. My thoughts are with each of you. Sincerely, Joan Hunter

Do not stand

By my grave, and weep.

I am not there,

I do not sleep—

I am the thousand winds that blow

I am the diamond glints in snow

I am the sunlight on ripened grain,

I am the gentle, autumn rain.

As you awake with morning’s hush,

I am the swift, up-flinging rush

Of quiet birds in circling flight,

I am the day transcending night.

Do not stand

By my grave, and cry—

I am not there,

I did not die.

— Clare Harner, The Gypsy, December 1934

A poem for the gifted poet. I am forever grateful for the years and years of her friendship, and deeply. Honoured to be one of her so called surrogate daughters.

My condolences to Peter, James, Simon and the many others who will miss her deeply.

Heaven is a brighter place since Shirley joined God's angels.

We will miss you, our kind and true friend.

May you still see Alberta's blue sky, which you loved so much.

Our sincerest condolences to Peter and family.

Edith and Larry R.

What a special woman!

A pillar of our community and a pleasure to visit with.

She will be missed.

My sympathy to the family.

Alan Alger

Our Deepest Condolences to our friend and neighbour Peter Van Leeuwen and family.

We were neighbours in the De Winton area for more years than I can remember. Shirley was a wonderful Lady, an esteemed horse woman, and a lovely friend to us. We share many memories of growing up and living together in the neighbourhood with the Van Leeuwen's and their boys, Simon and James. We send you are heartfelt sympathy, we really do share your loss.

All our love,

Marlene, Jeff, and Denise Toole