SHIRLEY MARGUERITE STEPHEN (FAIRBURN)

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SHIRLEY MARGUERITE STEPHEN (nee FAIRBURN) May 8, 1930 - April 28, 2005 My Angel An angel is someone who watches over you, Someone who cares for you, and someone who loves you. An angel is a protector from harm, a guard, and a hero. An angel is someone who helps you, guides you, and is always there for you. My angel never had wings, a halo, or a white gown. But she watched over me, cared for me, and loved me. She protected me, guarded me, and was my hero. She helped me, guided me, and was always there for me. My angel was also my mother. And now she has wings, a halo, and a white gown. We love you always and forever Mom! It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend after a lengthy battle with C.O.P.D. She will be dearly missed by her daughter Lynn and her much loved son-in-law Gary Kilfoyle. Mom will also be missed by her beloved grandchildren, Jennifer and Geoffrey Kilfoyle, the pride and joy of her life. She is also survived by a son Gerry (Judi) of Oregon and a daughter-in-law Ellen Stephen and grandson Garth in California. She will be lovingly missed by her adopted grandchildren, Michaela and Wyatt Teigen and their parents, Jed and Kim. They helped brighten Mom's last few years immensely and became a treasured part of the family. She is also survived by her brother James Fairburn (Doreen) and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Arnold and Anges Fairburn. Shirley was born in the Sturgeon Creek area and lived there most of her life so it was fitting that she spent her final days at the Grace Hospital Hospice with a view of the creek. One of the happiest times in her life was the building of her dream home on the river in Sanford and having the garden that she always wanted. Her yard was like a park, which many enjoyed. She was very generous with the veggies she grew. Mom was employed by Safeway most of her working life until she was forced to retire after by-pass surgery in the 80s. She was then able to spend the time she wanted enjoying her gardens and grandchildren. When she was no longer able to care for her home, she moved back to Sturgeon Creek in 1997. She loved her new home and made many friends. A special mention goes to Bev and Pat who were great friends and companions to Mom playing cards, bingo, and just being there for her. She greatly appreciated visits and crib games with her former husband, Ernie Stephen, during her time in the hospice. Thank you to everyone for taking the time to brighten Mom's last days. A big thank you to everyone at the Grace Hospital Hospice. Mom likened it to staying in a luxury hotel. She was a special lady with a great sense of humour and she will be missed by many. Don't forget the jellybeans, Mom. Spikey will be waiting. Donations may be made on Mom's memory to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 5 Kent St., Winnipeg, MB R2L 1X3. As per her request, no funeral service will be held. You Were Always There You were always there when we needed you No task too great or small With a loving heart and a willing hand For us you did them all. Thanks for the years you gave us, And for the precious times we shared, We only pray when you left us You knew how much we cared. God saw you getting tired, When a cure was not to be, He put His arms around you And said, come unto Me. FOREVER IN OUR MEMORIES A special goodbye to the greatest Grandmother in the world. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715 Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 30, 2005