Obituary of Shirley Hawkins

Shirley May Hawkins was born in Nipawin, SK to Sidney Charles Swan and Vera Swan nee McDonald. Shirley grew up on a farm near Nipawin, SK. She had an older brother Ronald Charles, an older Sister Joyce Ethlan and a younger brother Wesley Wayne. She went to school at South Hollywood school (rural school by Nipawin), lived on the family homestead until the family moved into Nipawin in 1957, and then to Edmonton a year later.

Shirley worked many jobs through the years. From raising and training races horses with her first husband (Garth Polier), working in various factories and restaurants, and establishing herself as an artist making signs and paintings for members of the community.

Shirley and Dale married in 1985, moved to Love, SK. to be closer to her family, and raise their daughter Deanna Lynn. Deanna was born in 1986 when Shirley was 40 years old.

She was creative and innovative designing the famous postmark for the Love office, and making ice sculptures and all sorts of other decorations for the Love winter festival year after year. While she was very involved with her home community, she also built a community helping others on their journey of recovery. She helped form the Nipawin Big Book Group and through sharing her own struggles, she was able to support others without judgement.

Shirley loved nature, spending as much time as possible outdoors camping, hiking, and exploring. She loved animals and rescued many pets throughout her years, giving them a wonderful, loving home. Whether her connections were with people, or animals, the bonds she made were beautiful and she will be dearly missed.

Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Sidney and Vera Swan, sister, Joyce, husband, Dale, and many beloved pets.

She is survived by her daughter, Deanna (Evan), brothers, Ronald and Wesley, great aunt, May Cox, cousin, Bonnie Mclean and many dear friends and found family.