Code, Shirley Irene (NEE ANDERSON)
February 26, 1929 Regina, Saskatchewan - May 11, 2014 Crossfield, Alberta
Shirley, beloved wife of Finlay Code, passed away peacefully in the Three Hills Hospital at the age of 85, with family by her side. Born in Regina, she was the youngest with three sisters: Vivian, Jeanne, Thelma and a brother, Wally. She grew up on a farm near Tisdale SK and enjoyed farm life with wide open spaces, gardens and dogs. In 1952, the proud Saskatchewanite transferred to Calgary, with the Bank of Montreal, where she worked until she married Finlay in 1954. They met while square dancing and enjoyed this pastime in Calgary, Orkney and Drumheller. They lived in Dunphy for a year, returning to Calgary for a time before they moved to the farm at Carbon in 1959 with Barbara and Lynne. So began their life on the farm which Shirley enjoyed as much as her rural childhood. Two sons, David and Laurie, were added to the family in the early 1960’s. Growing a garden and raising chickens to provide for her family was very important to her. An annual event was picking saskatoons with her family, even though it was sometimes a chore when children would rather throw berries at each other than dropping them in a basket. She also enjoyed knitting, embroidery, playing cards and board games, and baking. Her family came first, always. In 1991 came the first of four grandchildren, the joy of her life. She was always ready to slip them a loonie or two when she saw them. After 33 years on the farm, Shirley and Finlay retired to Crossfield in 1992. Family visits, and growing flowers, brought beautiful smiles to her face. She was a devoted wife, mom and grandma; putting the needs of her family before her own was her legacy. Shirley is survived by her husband, Finlay, and they were happy to celebrate their 60th anniversary in April. She also leaves to mourn her daughters Barbara and Lynne Code (Barry Sawada), sons David (Linda) and Laurie (Elaine), and grandchildren Jordan Sawada, Justan Sawada, Micayla Code and Jillian Code. She is also survived by her sister Thelma Meyer, sister-in-law Gwen Code and many nephews and nieces. The family would like to thank the staff at Linden Nursing Home and Three Hills Health Center who provided such compassionate care. Memorial service will be at 3:00 pm on Thursday, May 15th in Crossfield United Church. In Mom’s honor, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
