SHIRLEY ANNE ATKINS (VERMEULEN)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

SHIRLEY ANNE ATKINS (nee VERMEULEN) September 19, 1935 - July 10, 2009 In early morning of Friday, July 10, 2009, our precious Mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend Shirley Atkins journeyed home into eternity with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. She will be greatly missed by the children and family, she leaves to mourn her passing, three sons, Tim Atkins of Thunder Bay, Laurie of Selkirk, Vaughn and daughter-in-law Sandra of Selkirk, two daughters, Runa Venderbos and son-in-law Andre of Winnipeg, MB, Jennifer Janvier and son-in-law Winston of Gillam, MB; as well as 15 grandchildren whom she adored, Ryan and wife Trish, Alexis (Amilcar), Michael, Matthew, Yvonne, Jade, Cara, Laura, CJ, Brandur, John, Zander, Kelly and twins Denise and Liam, and her only sweet little great- grandchild Brooke. Shirley's family were the precious jewels in her life, she cherished them dearly. She also leaves four brothers Phil of Winnipeg, Gar and Dan of Saskatchewan and Allen of BC. Shirley was predeceased by her children's father Vernon Lloyd Atkins, her parents, mother Elizabeth Clest McPhee and her father Albert Vermeulen. Born and raised in Saskatchewan Shirley spent her childhood on the farm and then in a monastery with the Nuns. As a young adult she married, graduated from nursing and then had her children. She enjoyed her career, raising her children, cooking for her family and knitting for her grandchildren once they arrived. She had many talents and gifts along with her faith and she followed her heritage in music. We will remember her by the beautiful child of God she was, sharing all she had, a kind and gentle natured soul, she loved travelling and spending time with her family and special friends. Shirley was praise and worship leader in Selkirk Aboriginal Redemption Center Church for many years; she loved the ministry, sharing her gifts of song writing, playing guitar, singing, praying for the sick and the elderly in tough times as well as in times of celebration. She often accompanied Pastor Raymond Settee to minister in the nursing homes in Selkirk, Tudor house, Red River Place and Selkirk General hospital. Shirley's love for gospel music involved a variety of blues, country, and bluegrass. Passion for playing took her far in her life as she enjoyed her Gig's with her comrades at the Bluegrass festival in Beausejour, Portage La Prairie, Northern MB and Lower Fort Garry for the 100th anniversary of the Métis Federation and many others. She had a special gift in song writing which portrayed her relationship with her heavenly father. We will be honouring her life in a service on Friday, July 17, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Selkirk Aboriginal Church at 209 Dufferin Ave. in Selkirk, MB. It was her wish for us to honour her in music, song and worship. We extend in gratitude special thanks to Aunt June Dunning, Mom's sister-in-law and long time very dear friend, who was by her side faithfully aiding in Mom's care and comfort. We give thanks to the girls at the Palliative Care unit as well. 2nd Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me, the crown of righteousness that the Lord the righteous judge will give me on that great day of his return. and the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return. Funeral Arrangements in care of Rock Fontaine toll free (866)499-2601 or in Winnipeg at 223-2576.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 15, 2009