October 17, 2020
1931-2020 ~ Mrs. Shirley Colleen Harrison (nee Ruttle; Rapley) died peacefully on October 17, 2020 at the age of eighty-nine.
Shirley is survived by her four children: Lynda Stoppler, Clinton Rapley (Rita), Karen Richards (Curtis), Rebecca Gutsch (Eric). Also surviving Shirley are her ten grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. Also left as a reminder of Shirley's love for animals is her cat Mittens.
Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Harrison; her three siblings: Arthur Ruttle, Bryce Ruttle, and Elaine Morris; and her son-in-law Brian Stoppler. Also preceding Shirley were her loyal and pampered animal companions: Max, Lucky, and Big Red.
As a series of small strokes took their toll on Shirley's vision and independence she - and the family - were very appreciative of the incredible efforts of grandson Brian Richards, his wife Tanya, and their children Rayden and Easton.
Their involvement, and eventually in-home caregivers, meant that Shirley could maintain her lifestyle in her own home until only months before her death.
Throughout her life Shirley was passionate about accepting challenges, learning, teaching, animals, and travelling - but only to places where there were animals she wanted to see. As a result she went to places as diverse as the Amazon, the Galapagos Islands, the Great Bear Rainforest, and Antarctica.
Shirley worked hard all of her life and expected others to do the same. She was proud of the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her wish for her family - and all others would be that they work hard, travel, and continue to learn throughout their lives.
There will be a Celebration of Life in 2021. Those wishing to commemorate Shirley's life are invited to make a donation to their local SPCA, a local school Breakfast Program or Library, or the CNIB.