It is with deep sorrow the family of Shirley Osborne announces her peaceful passing at Mapleview Extendicare Home, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Friday October 20, 2023 at the age of 87.
Shirley will be forever loved and missed by her husband Ernest Clarke (Ozzie) Osborne. Loving mother of Rosalyn Renwick (Rod), Trish Hill (Dave), and Jana Rainone. Beloved and adored Nonni of Thomas Molland, Christopher Molland (Melissa), Alisha Hawdon (Mikey), Corey Rainone, Sasha Hill. Cherished Great Nonni of six, sharing a sweet bond with Cole, Drew and Finley. Welcomed into the loving arms of her father and mother the late Franklin and Violet Howe. She will be dearly missed by her brothers Fred (Diane) and Richard (Nicole) Howe. Predeceased by brother Gerald Howe (Patricia) and sister Wendy McLellan (late Jimmy). Fondly remembered by brother-in-law Art Osborne (late Dianne). Caring Godmother to Michelle Howe. Greatly loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends Pat and John Simon.
Shirley loved well and was well loved. Family and good friends were the centre of her life. She particularly enjoyed the fall season as it brought a riot of colours, cooler temperatures, inside gatherings, her birthday and favourite holiday, Thanksgiving. Shirley was a talented cook and skilled baker, butter tarts and pies being her specialty. If by some minuscule chance her baking didn’t turn out, Ozzie would eat it regardless. Her children occasionally complained about having no ‘real’ (store bought) cookies in the house. We were well and truly spoilt.
Throughout her life she maintained a healthy and active lifestyle by cross country skiing, roller skating, swimming at camp and the YMCA, YOGA classes with family, tai-chi, walking with family and friends and dancing with grandchildren and great grandchildren. Shirley had a deep appreciation for music and had a wide ranging collection of CD’s. She relished musical theatre and travelled multiple times with her husband to New York and Toronto to see stage performances.
She taught her children the joys of reading for pleasure and introduced the world of poetry. Thanks to Shirley’s influence we gift the words of Service, Frost, Poe, Whitman and Tennyson to the next generation. She had a terrific vocabulary which served her well with her love of crossword puzzles and at times had her children sourcing the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
One of Shirley’s favourite pastimes was chatting on the phone. She was a great multi- tasker by trying to solve hers, yours and the world’s problems within a two hour conversation.
She was an avid Blue Jays fan often travelling to games in Toronto and preseason games in Florida. When watching the games on tv, she was an armchair ump unreservedly. Shirley loved her grandchildren very much and had a unique bond with them. She embodied everything that was wonderful, magical, fun and loving in a Grandmother. From homemade pjs, sweaters, toques and mitts, personalized Christmas stockings, strong hugs, kisses, sweet songs, fun games and adventures. She supported their decisions, helped when she could and loved always. She was the absolute Best Nonni!
In her twilight years, Shirley dealt with various health issues; COPD, stroke and dementia. She maintained a positive attitude, had a sunny disposition and a smile for us every day. Dementia is a terrible thief, stealing indiscriminately. Thankfully, Shirley still enjoyed and took comfort in her music, often times singing word for word her favorite songs. She especially enjoyed time outside with family and friends; be it sitting in the garden, an outing, wheeling down the Hub Trail or sitting quietly with a cup or tea and a Bear Paws cookie watching passersby.
The family wishes to thank all who offered encouragement, support and good wishes. Thank you to all who sent cards, flowers, food, coffee runs and visited Shirley when possible during her stays at SAH, Cedarwood Lodge and Mapleview. Your kindness and thoughtfulness made Shirley’s world a brighter, happier place.
The family would like to extend our gratitude and appreciation to all staff on Lake Superior, Mapleview Extendicare. Your caring, happy attitudes makes the world of difference in people’s lives. Thank you to all PSW’s who attended Shirley, housekeeping for the great work and great chats, dietary for their patience in Mom’s ever changing meals, activities for their inclusion, Nursing staff for your professionalism and caring and R.P.N. Christina for listening. To the wonderful friends Shirley made on the 4th floor, thank you!
Cremation has taken place and at Shirley’s request no formal services. Arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street E. 705-759-2522). Memorial contributions (payable online or by cheque) to the Alzheimer's Society or Humane Society of Sault Ste Marie would be appreciated by the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the family may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Osborne family