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Shirley Block Obituary

Shirley C. Block, 57, Boise, died at 8:20 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010, at St. Luke's Hospital, where she had been admitted on Tuesday, Sept. 21. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, October 1, at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 2981 W. Boise Ave. Burial will follow at Dry Creek Cemetery at 3:30 p.m. A viewing for family and friends will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, at Alden-Waggoner Funeral Chapel, 5400 Fairview Ave., Boise. Shirley was born March 14, 1953 to Richard and Delores (Babcock) Berdan in Auburndale, WI. She graduated in 1971 from Auburndale High School and in 1974 from North Central Technical Institute in Wausau, WI. On October 13, 1973, she and Dale Block were married and they moved to Boise in 1976. She worked at St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center for 20 years and for the past 10 years has been employed as a diabetic nurse educator at Humphrey's Diabetes Center. She was currently a student at Stevens-Henager for her bachelor's degree of nursing. Survivors include a daughter, Nicole (Chris) Swanson of Boise; son, Kenny Block, Las Vegas, NV; grandson, Noah Swanson and a baby Swanson on the way;three sisters, Nancy (Bill) Arndt and Laura (Tom) Johnson, Marshfield, WI; Judy Berdan, Milwaukee, WI, Three brothers, Bruce Berdan, Clinton, WI, Mike (Diana) Berdan, Auburndale, WI, Matthew (Christi) Berdan, Marshfield, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews who loved her very much. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Block on April 9, 2000; dad, Richard Berdan, Dec. 10, 2005; and brother, Kenneth on June 20, 2006. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Humphrey's Diabetes Center, 1226 E. River St., Boise, ID 83702 or "Shirley Block Grandkid College Fund" at Capital Educators Credit Union, 500 E Highland, Boise, ID, 83706, under Kenny Block.

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Published by Idaho Statesman on Sep. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Shirley Block

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Charlene Harshman

November 9, 2010

I was so shocked to open the paper and see that Shirley had passed. I just loved her. I 1st met Shirley when she was the unit instructor on 2 east at St.Al's in 1983. We remained friends over the years and both belonged to the Lutheran Church as well. I had not talked to her recently but always enjoyed catching up with her when we would run into each other here in Boise. What a fun wonderful person she was. I will miss her but I know she's in heaven!! Love you Shirley.

Jessica Frank

November 4, 2010

I just learned of Shirley's passing and I just wanted to let her family know that I am so sorry for their loss. I met Shirley at my first Idaho PTA convention. She was a wonderful lady and will be deeply missed.

Bill Fullilove

November 3, 2010

I met Shirley Block on October 1, 2004 at Humphrey's Diabetes Center. Over the next five years Shirley helped to get my diabetes under control with an insulin pump. We became friends and each of us always looked forward to our appointments together we later found out.
Early in 2010 we discovered that we were both divorced. Our first date was February 20,2010. Long story short we fell in love at the first kiss. We had planned to be formally engaged on February 20, 2011, Shirley posed a profound question to me one day on one of our many walks she asked; "have you ever been completely and totally loved." It set me back. After much thought I said no. To which she stated; "now we both can say yes to that question." Shirley was the finest lady I had ever met. Always with a smile, a sparkle in her eyes and "mischevious" as she would say.
Darling I miss you so so much. You and are are both born again Christians and I know you are very happy in heaven. I look forward to seeing you there my love.WOW, pretty lady. xxooxx.

Dorene Heim

November 2, 2010

To my suprise I saw the article about Shirley in the paper yesterday. I had the pleasure of meeting her a year ago when she became the diabetic educator for my 7 year old son. As everyone knows she was an amazing person! She became someone we learned from, admired, and even leaned on. She will be greatly missed by my family and by many others.

Shirley and I March 2010

Bill Fullilove

November 1, 2010

Eileen Butler

October 31, 2010

What a wonderful tribute to Shirley in the Idaho Statesman today! She was SO SPECIAL! There was no one like her. She is missed. My only comfort in her passing is knowing she is with Jesus in heaven. It was her goal her entire life and she has attained it.

Janet Orndorff

October 31, 2010

Once you know Shirley, you have a friend for life. I was privileged to share some very special time with her when we worked together to pass a Boise School District bond election in 1996. What a delight she was to work with! No task was too difficult for her, she was a master at encouraging everyone around her, and she was great at organizing every detail. Our community has lost a real gem!

October 31, 2010

So sorry to learn of Shirleys death. As a member of one of Humphrey's diabetes classes. I can say that she was a great inspiration to me and others. A great instructor and a wounderful person. I know that she will be missed be all who knew her. ken and jackie Dahms

Nancy Wokich Abdallah

October 27, 2010

A short, few years back, Shirley taught a Bethel Bible study at BSLC on Wednesday nights...for 2 years! (We had summers off). She warned, "Don't miss a class unless you're in the hospital!" I took it seriously. It was grueling! SO MUCH information to cover in such a short time. After long days at work, the group was tired and worn out, but we had Shirley's beautiful, smiling face, cheerful, enthusiastic charm, and unwavering energy to keep us going. Thank you, Shirley, for tirelessly sharing ALL you had to give and for loving so many of us!

Shirley and her beloved children!

Rosalyn Palacios

October 12, 2010

What a woman! Shirley was the epitome of what a friend should be...great listener and super supportive! She loved her children, Kenny & Nicole and little Noah. I worked with Shirley for almost 10 years at Humphreys and will forever miss her infectious laughter and her wonderful company. Shirley was a terrific diabetes educator and an awesome lady!

Julie Cabinaw

October 11, 2010

I was a patient of Shirleys through three diabetic pregnancies and she was my advocate, advisor and ray of sunshine. I called Humphreys today because I just wanted to connect with her, and learned of this news. I am so sorry. She spoke of her children and grandchildren with such pride and love, and she helped me manage my diabetic pregnancies so well, getting me treatment with an insulin pump that is practically unheard of for a Type 2/gestational diabetic, and made my pregnacies so much safer and healthier. I know Shirley has a special place in heaven. Much sympathy and love to your family.

Sherry Boyce

October 5, 2010

Nicole & Kenny,
My prayers are with you. I met Shirley on our first day of orientation for nursing school 37 years ago. Shirley with her Mom, I with mine. We became study friends & were so glad to finally graduate. We shared great letters at Christmas & Birthdays--always sharing news of her wonderful family & of the Green Bay Packers. Shirley loved her white Mustang...and Dale too. What a wonderful person she was then & has touched so many lives since. I am glad to have been part of Shirley's extended family. Your Mom was special, thanks for sharing her with so many. Blessings to each of you.

Dean and Janet Palmer

October 4, 2010

Nicole, Chris, Noah and Baby Swanson..

Words can't express how saddened we were to learn of Shirley's death. We enjoyed getting to know her at your wedding. She was such a warm and caring woman and she was so proud of all of you. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dave and Sonya Greegor

October 4, 2010

We were so saddened to hear about Shirley, and are having a hard time imagining the world without her. We were neighbors for many years with our children growing up together, and we had such wonderful times with Shirley, Dale, Nicole and Kenny. We have always had such admiration for Shirley. She inspired everyone with her positive energy, no matter what life dealt her. We will miss her. Our love and support to you Nicole and Kenny. May you know peace.

Tania Phillips

October 2, 2010

I am in shock....Shirley was my mentor/friend/inspiration in so many ways - and my sons (Skylar) God Mother. Nicole, Kenny, Chris and Noah....I am so very sorry to hear of this news. But please know, that your mom loved you all so much - and what a glorious reunion she is having with your dad at this very moment. We love you and are thinking/praying for you all. God Bless....Tania Phillips (Kevin, Skylar, Maddy and Jayden)

Kathy Blank

October 2, 2010

Nicole, Chris and Kenny, I am so very sorry to hear about Shirley's death. Whenever I saw her at the gym she had a Noah story to tell. She loved you all so much. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cathy Meuret

October 1, 2010

I heard today about Shirley's death from Barbara Goedde. Shirley, Barb and I worked together at St. Al's in the early 80s. Shirley inspired me and many other nurses through her always caring and positive outlook and really big smile. And what a patient advocate! She was tenacious in getting patients the best care possible. She touched so many lives in her years of nursing service.
It's been years since I left Boise, but Shirley never missed sending a Christmas letter, keeping me up to date on the Block family exploits as you grew up. She was so proud of you, Nicole and Kenny, and loved you both so much. My sincere sympathy to you and all of Shirley's family.

Joanne & Dave Clovis

October 1, 2010

God gave us an angel when he sent Shirley...and now he has taken her back. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Nicole and Kenny and your families.

Joey Logue Larson

October 1, 2010

I am shocked and saddened to learn of Shirley's passing. Although it's been years since we worked together at St. Al's, we have kept in touch with long, informational family letters at Christmas. I have always remembered Shirley with her smile and the memory of that smile will continue to brighten my days. My thoughts and prayers go out to Nicole & Kenny and your families.

anna nipper

October 1, 2010

We at Meridian Humphreys have lost not only a co-worker, but a best friend. There are no words to express our feelings of loss. But what a joy to have known her and learned from her and loved her. She has forever impacted our lives.

Lorraine Kerr

September 30, 2010

My deepest sympathy to the family of Shirley. I will always remember her smile as she was coming through the doors to make one of the 6 AM classes at Gold's Gym. She always had time for a "Good Morning" and would always ask how I was doing. She loved her family and spoke of them often. You will be missed Shirley.

September 30, 2010

My deepest sympathy to the family of Shirley. I only knew her from school but her sweet spirit was apparent from our first meeting. I am sorry to miss the opportunity of getting to know her better and to learn from her extensive knowledge. Her death is a loss to our school but also to health care and the community. Renee Nutter (Boise, ID)

Julie Walker

September 30, 2010

There is a deep void in the office next door. No one will ever fill Shirley's shoes. She was loved by all her patients and she made coming to work an extra joy. I know with time we will feel her departure a little less but we will alway love her and miss her.

Debbie Hertzog

September 30, 2010

Dear Shirley-
I only wish our paths had crossed more often here in the Treasure Valley! Each time I saw you it was a reminder of our shared passion for PTA and working tirelessly on behalf of all children. I'll never forget meeting you twelve years ago when I moved here from Texas. You were leading the Idaho PTA and pulled me on board. I marveled at your committment and enthusiasm. Your light spread throughout the state and you made such a difference in the lives of so many. I'll never forget our battles and most important our victories. As you always said...in reference to PTA and advocating for children..."it's just so important". Your legacy to the children of Idaho will live on...There's an extra bright star shining down on them
Your friend,

Alan and Jeanine Fitzgerald

September 30, 2010

We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of our dear neighbor and friend, Shirley. We had the privilege of living a few doors down from Dale and Shirley for many years. What an amazing couple! Shirley seemed larger than life....always busy, always feisty, always smiling, and never wavering in her faith and devotion to God and to her family. We will miss her so much. Our prayers are with you, Kenny and Nicole. She loved you intensely! Whenever we talked, her eyes lit up as she spoke of both of you and how proud she was of the wonderful people you have become. And then, of course, no conversation was complete without stories of that sweet, adorable Noah....He was her joy and delight! What a blessing to have been a friend of Shirley's. We are richer for having known her! May God's love and grace comfort and sustain you!

Gina Cornell

September 30, 2010

Shirley - your are with Jesus now.....How awesome that must be. God bless you.

Angela Degni

September 30, 2010

My deepest thoughts are with Nicole & Kenny now, I will always remember I took with your Mother to Washington DC, awhile back we had a great time she be well missed God bless you both. Angela Degni

Linda Reese

September 29, 2010

Shirley, I will miss you so much. My prayers to your family. Humphreys will not be the same without you, but you will certainly make heaven a better place.

Betti Olson

September 29, 2010

I am very deeply saddened to hear the news about Shirley. Along with being very active within our community, I still recall the flag that hung in front of their home that proudly reflected their passion for the Green Bay Packers! Shirley was such an inspirational, gifted and very talented lady...I am sure she will be greatly missed by all that had the pleasure of having known her.....she touched many lives... hugs to you Kenny and all of the family.....my thoughts and prayers are with you... ~B

Susan Iwasa

September 29, 2010

I had the privilege to work side by side with Shirley as diabetes educators. We had a great time sharing stories about our similar paths in nursing, birthdays, and children. Shirley may have died in a physical way but will live on in my heart. Shirley's presents will not die.

Don Krahn

September 29, 2010

I never knew Shirley well, I only met her three or four times, as my wife worked with her. Shirley was always attractive and vivacious. The world is different without her.

September 29, 2010

Shirley, I will miss you. You were such a wonderful person and alot of help to me with my kids when I had to work the Holidays. You were always smiling and happy, You are the best. Love, Danielle Schroeder

Mark Stephensen

September 29, 2010

Shirley was a deeply committed Christian woman whose strength and inner peace was a blessing to all who knew her. She fulfilled the Great Commission by teaching the Gospel (Bethel and Sunday School) and by being a ardent prayer warrior. We shared many thoughts and prayers, especially during the illness and death of Dale. She called me one of her Guardian Angels and I am proud and humbled to have known her and to share her brief time on this earth. Mark Stephensen, Eagle ID

Alice Cottle

September 29, 2010

Shirley is the very definition of the word, "smile." I appreciate the concern she always showed for others. In particular, I am very appreciative of the love and concern she gave the children of the Boise School District and the State of Idaho. Her service as a local, district, and state PTA president and as a devoted school volunteer has given our children - many now adults with their own children - a better world in which to live. Thank you, Shirley. We will miss you.

Reta Sutton

September 29, 2010

Shirley you were the greatest friend.
Prayers to your family and God speed.

delaina paasch

September 29, 2010

Shirley it is so sad you had to leave so early. You were wonderful. God Bless your children. Have fun in heaven!

Jeni McFarlane

September 29, 2010

Shirley was like a second Mom to me. Always a source of support, understanding, acceptance, and unconditional love. She was a beautiful example of Christ and His love.
We were coworkers at HDC and she was a mentor and friend to me. I am blessed to have known her.
I'm sure the Lord is thrilled to have you home with Him, dear Shirley.

Pam McEwan

September 29, 2010

Shirley was a wonderful person. We had great conversations and lots of laughter during our boys many basketball games. My condolences to Kenny & Nichole and the rest of the family.

Nichole Thiede

September 29, 2010

I knew Shirley for 13 years. She was apart of my family. She was a very special woman. She was loved by everyone that knew her. I hope she knows how much my family and I love her. She came to the hospital that the that I had my daughter. We are greatful to have know Shirley. We love you Shirley.

Haley Childers

September 29, 2010

Aunt Shirley -
You will be greatly missed. You are VERY Loved. I will miss your smile, laughter, encouragment, and much more. I look forward to seeing you again someday in heaven. Love, Haley

As family we have loved reading comments from Shirley's friends and other family. Please feel free to share thoughts, stories, comments, and pictures on the:
Shirley(Berdan)Block Memorial Page
on facebook.

Alisha Coleman

September 29, 2010

My sympathies to all of Shirley's loved ones. She was a lovely compassionate person. She helped me through many tough times at humphrey's. She helped me through two difficult pregnancies and was always there to listen and work through things with me. My other children loved to go with me to visit "Ms Shirley" because they always knew that she would have paper and markers waiting for them. She always spoke very fondly of her children and her grandson. I will miss hearing stories about all of you. I will never forget the time that she told me that her brother had been in a bike accident and someone had hit him. She told me that she lived everyday like it was special and I truly believe she did. She will be deeply missed..

Haley Childers

September 29, 2010

Aunt Shirley,
You were LOVED by so many, you will be greatly missed! I will miss your personality, laughter, smile, encouragement, long talks, and the list goes on and on. I look forward to seeing you again in heaven someday. Love, Haley

Friends and Family - If you would like to leave comments for other friends and family please visit the:

Shirley (Berdan) Block Memorial Page

on facebook and feel free to share any pictures you may have as well. As family we are loving reading comments from close friends of Shirleys.

Kathy Schillinger

September 29, 2010

Your families have my deepest sympathies. I sat next to Shirley in the French Horn section of our high school band for two years. Even though I haven't seen her in a number of years, I've always considered her a friend. The world is a much sadder place without her in it. Wayne & Kathy (Cutler) Schillinger

Kelly Krahn

September 29, 2010

I worked with Shirley at Humphreys. I loved to hear her laughter ripple down the hallway. Her zest for life energized everyone. I used to tell her it was like "trying to catch a moonbeam in a jar". Her light was every where. She lived passionately; didn't waste a minute and loved deeply all of those in her life. I will greatly miss her but know that she has won the final prize in heaven that she lived for.

September 29, 2010

Our deepest sympathies to your families. I was in the band with Shirley in high school. I sat next to her in the French Horn section. Even though I haven't seen her in years, I've always considered her a friend. The world is a sadder place without her in it. Kathy (Cutler) and Wayne Schillinger (Marshfield, Wisconsin)

Brian Crossland

September 29, 2010

What a great lady and a super friend. I worked with Shirley for years as I would call on Humphreys, and Shirley was my best friend. I will miss her smile and compassion most of all.

September 29, 2010

Our deepest sympathies to your family. Shirley was a cheerleader with me in high school.

Dennis and Sue(Strobel) Raab, Auburndale

Stefanie Coleman

September 28, 2010

Shirley was a wonderful woman, with such a tender heart. It is because of her support when I developed gest diabetes while pregnant with my daughter Tara that we have a happy healthy one year old. She was always an encouragement. I always looked forward to seeing her, chatting with her, spending time with her. It made having gest diabetes not so bad and she made it do-able. We had a special connection with the Kennys in both of our lives--her brother and son and my son. I will always remember her. She was a such a light. I was blessed to know her. And she will be very missed.

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