Age 79 of Rogers, formerly Eagle River, AK passed away at home on October 24, 2018. Shirley is survived by brother Frank (Joanne) Ripley of Elk River, MN; nieces, nephews and their families; two stepsons and many lifelong friends too numerous to count. Preceded in death by loving partner James “Kulie” Kulievan; brother George (Sally) Ripley, and stepson Ty.

She was born the daughter of Fred and Dorothy (Sandon) Ripley on June 27, 1939 in Stryker, MT. Shirley graduated from Eureka High School in Montana. While attending college in Spokane Washington she fell in love with racing stock cars. She moved to Alaska in 1964 and opened her own accounting business. Always busy, she loved to race snow machines, camping with her ATV, hunting and fishing – usually catching the biggest fish. She and Kulie especially loved attending NASCAR at their winter home in Pahrump, NV.

Service to community was essential throughout Shirley’s life. A Lifetime member of Sleeping Lady Lions Club, Shirley held all cabinet positions and served as District Governor. She received a Melvin Jones award, the Lions Clubs’ highest honor. Her favorite volunteer activities included working with the Lions Mobile Vision Screening trailer checking children’s eyesight at the Alaska State Fair, the Bear Paw Festival Pageant and Parade, and the Valentine’s Dinner Fundraiser. The Boys & Girls Club of Eagle River held a special place in her heart. Shirley was also an active member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Elks Club, and the Legion.

Shirley lived life to the fullest. Wherever she lived she made family. She lived hard, loved hard, laughed hard, worked hard and played hard. Happy hour will be forever quieter without her.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 17 at 11:00 a.m.; visitation one hour prior at The Peterson Chapel, 300 Main St. N, St. Michael, MN. Her final resting place will be near Eagle River, Alaska following a celebration of life in Summer 2019. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the community organization of the donor’s choice.  Serving the family…

The Peterson Chapel

St. Michael, MN 763-497-5362