Shirley Marie Hansen

March 30, 1929 - July 9, 2021

Obituary

March 30, 1929 – July 9, .2021

Shirley was born to parents Seibelt and Jennie Kruse in Gann Valley, South Dakota. She joined the family between older brother Eugene and younger brother “Tut”. The family moved to Buckley when the children were small and eventually to a farm in Enumclaw, Washington. Shirley attended Enumclaw High School where she played on the tennis team and was a majorette. Shirley’s farm girl roots stayed with her through her life – and showed in her passion for gardening and her interest in nutrition. She met Tom Hansen in high school. They fell in love and married on December 2, 1949. Tom and Shirley enjoyed over 50 years of marriage, raising and loving three children together. Over the years they had many close friendships. They built especially close bonds with family, hosting many holiday gatherings. Shirley returned to school in middle age to earn her bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Washington. She was an avid Husky fan ever after. She used her accounting degree working for Boeing Aerospace in Kent. She spent many years on or around the golf course honoring and supporting Tom’s love of the game. She attended her husband with dedication and love as he battled Alzheimer’s. Though it was a long and difficult time in her life, Shirley persevered. She went on to create a rich and rewarding social life, met dozens of people, and formed lasting friendships. She spent time with friends walking, doing tai chi, traveling, and playing Bridge. Shirley had a long life. She was a strong and honest woman with a quick laugh and energy to burn. She had a keen eye for modern decorating and she loved a good meal and a glass of wine. She could talk with anyone about anything. Though she lived to 92, she never really saw herself as old, or sick, or tired. She was always looking forward to what was coming next. Her friends and family are feeling the heavy loss of her absence. She leaves behind her many beloved family members including Julie, Ron, TR, Denise, Jodi, Tom, Mariah, Jonathan, Melodie, Jack, Grey, Ben, Tommy, Callie, Amelia, Kristine, Curtis, Shelley, Darrell Charles, Tracy, Becky, Robin, Amy, Molly, Wendy, Bradley, Maryanne, Eddie, Eric, and many, many loving friends. Thank you Shirley for the wonderful memories.