SHIRLEY BORDEN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

SHIRLEY BORDEN May 15, 1923 - March 2, 2016 It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of our beloved Shirley, after a brief illness, at the age of 92. Shirley leaves behind her loving husband of 72 years, Sam; her children, Marilyn (Rick), Myron (Ruth) and Alan (Murray); grandchildren, Kerry and Emily McLoughlin, Jennifer Borden (Brad), Jonathan Borden; and adored great-granddaughter Ava Wolff. Born in Winnipeg in 1923 to Louis and Bessie Bromberg, Shirley grew up in the city's north end with her older brother Wilfred, who predeceased her at age 67, in 1981. Shirley and Sam met at the Winnipeg Beach tennis courts at age 12 and married at age 20. After Sam graduated from Dentistry and enlisted in the Canadian Dental Corps, Shirley accompanied him on his postings to various airforce stations throughout Western Canada until his discharge from the service in 1946, when they returned to Winnipeg and raised their family. In the early 1970s, Shirley returned to school to complete a degree in early childhood education, which led to her position for seven years as Coordinator of Volunteers, for what is now known as the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities. Shirley was a committed volunteer and gave many hours to numerous community and charitable endeavours. She had a lifelong love of music, especially the piano, and enjoyed attending the symphony and theatre. In 1979, she studied photography at the Winnipeg Art Gallery prior to joining Sam for a year's travel abroad, spending most of their time in Israel, Spain and France. On returning home, Shirley gave a series of slide presentations on their travels to community groups throughout the city. In latter years, Shirley took special delight in her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Her radiant smile, her wisdom and tremendous warmth will be remembered and greatly missed by her family and many friends. A private graveside service celebrating Shirley's life was held at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery on Friday, March 4. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 12, 2016