SHIRLEY BEAN

1932 - 2024

(SAMBRAY)
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Shirley Mae Bean (Sambray) announce her peaceful passing on August 19, 2024 with her family and friends by her side.

Shirley said many goodbyes during the last few weeks to extended family and friends.

Born on April 4, 1932 in Fort William, Ontario, Shirley lived her younger years in Slate River and Victoria Park, followed by Sister Leila Greco and most recently Southbridge Pinewood. Shirley attended the McKellar Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1953. She practiced nursing exclusively at McKellar Hospital including operating room, surgical services and later as a ward clerk on 3 South. For two decades Shirley also presided over various College of Nurses examinations. Shirley's nursing career had an impact on many people in her life, including 3 daughters and 2 granddaughters choosing nursing as their career. This fall a great-granddaughter is entering the registered nurse program at Lakehead University.

Shirley was well known in the City of Thunder Bay from many of her extracurricular activities including curling (president of FWCC), bridge, duplicate bridge, many hours of colouring and church events. Shirley always supported her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren's sports and activities. Many years were enjoyed at the family camp at Shebandowan Lake and the memories made there will last many lifetimes.

Shirley married Ralph Bean at First Church United after nursing graduation, and they built their family home on Willow Place and there they raised their four children. She will be fondly remembered by her children Susan Veltri (Nick), Kathryn Bean (Albert), David Bean (Donna) and Jennifer Anderson (Wayne); adoring grandchildren Kari, Kristi, Kelli, Liana, Michael, Ashley, Kurtis, Soraya, Miranda and Alexis and 22 great grandchildren who lit up her life with every visit, meal, facetime and family gathering; brother Bob Sambray (Fran) as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband Ralph Bean (1991), parents Frank and Lillian Sambray, in-laws Ina and Benjamin Bean, sister Joyce Heilman and great granddaughter Lydia Mae.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Arlene Capricci, the staff of Sister Leila Greco and an extra special thank you to the caring staff at Southbridge Pinewood Blue Heron Home area.

A Celebration of Shirley's life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024 in the Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, presided by Rev. Lionel Ketola. A reception will follow. Private family interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to donate in her memory, donations may be directed to Ronald McDonald House (Toronto), The Jaida Project (Suicide and Mental Health Awareness), The DEK Foundation (Overdose Awareness and Prevention), Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) or First Wesley Church.

The service will be live-streamed at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca where condolences may be offered as well.