August 17, 1925 - August 17, 2021
It is with profound sadness that we announce that Shirley died at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on her 96th birthday, August 17, 2021. She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Frank and their son Steven (2019). Shirley is survived by son Randy, daughter Susan Burke, son-in-law Garry Burke, and her beloved grandchildren Lee Fielder and Dan (Monica) Fielder. Shirley was the oldest of six children born to Clifford and Violet (White) Vosper in Toronto, all of whom predeceased her; Harry Vosper, Earl Vosper, Pat Lauria, Glenda Reid and Lois Bell.
Shirley and Frank married in 1943, and after he returned from WWII they developed many lasting friendships with neighbours, fellow Shriners, and skiing buddies. After moving to Moonstone they added a new network of friends. Shirley particularly enjoyed the winters she spent helping visually impaired people learn to ski, as well as their ski trips in Canada and the United States. She loved her first trip to Europe with close friends Fran and Pat, as well as other trips with Frank in Canada, to England, Scotland, New Zealand twice and to the Netherlands to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands.
Throughout her life Shirley’s priority was her family. She dedicated her life to raising us, provided us with many interesting recreational activities, and made sure we completed our university education. Our friends were always welcome at the house, and at the cottage. Later many said she was like a second mother to them, too. Shirley was overjoyed when Lee and Dan were born and treasured every hour she spent with them. Both agree that Grandma Shirley and Grandpa Frank were always there for them, proudly celebrated their accomplishments, and were especially proud that they graduated from the Air Cadet program and from university. Coming from a large family, reunions of both the Vosper and Fielder families were favorite events for Shirley as she delighted in reconnecting with all (dozens) of cousins, nieces, and nephews. She especially valued the friendship and closeness of Frank’s six sisters.
After Dad died we honoured Mom’s wish to remain in her home for as long as possible. This could not have happened without the exceptional community services of the Local Integrated Health Network (LIHN).Our sincere thank you to Erin Carpenter, her palliative care case manager, and to the Personal Support Workers Mary, Kimberly, Trudy (Care Partners)and Lenora (Happy at Home) whose expertise made their visits both helpful and enjoyable for Mom. Our family will never forget the ongoing, compassion, professional skills, and guidance of Tammy McNeill, RN (Bayshore) and Joanne Matte, RPN (LHIN) while caring for Mom, and supporting us. We are also grateful to the palliative team nurses at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital for ensuring Mom’s final hours were comfortable. To Dr. Deven Bhatt, our sincere thank you for treating both Mom and Dad over the years. They both looked forward to your friendly chats, kindness, and excellent care.
If you would like to make a donation in Shirley’s memory please consider a charity that supports children, as Mom did. She adored babies and young children, recognizing that so many need our support to help them grow up healthy and happy.
Please join us at a gathering of friends and family on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 1 – 4 p.m., at Bonaire Golf Club, 1699 Woodrow Road, Coldwater ON L0K 1E0, to celebrate Mom’s long and happy life.
Arrangements entrusted to the Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West St. N., Orillia (705)325-2231.