SHIRLEY SLAGLE

Shirley Ann Slagle In memory of Shirley Slagle, who passed away peacefully on October 31, 2013 at her home in Puyallup, with her son beside her. Shirley Ann Chopp, was born August 17, 1930, on a farm in Narka, Kansas to Joe and Emma Chopp (McDowell). She was the oldest of 3 children. She attended Albion Country School in Republic County, Kansas and later attended grade school in Narka. Shirley graduated from Narka High School in May, 1948 and has remained in contact with high school friends over the years. Shirley was raised on her parents' farm and spent many years helping her father feeding livestock, driving the tractor and combine during planting, and harvest times. She always related fond memories and stories of this time to family and friends. Shirley met her future husband Milton Slagle, of Hubbell, Nebraska, who had served in WWII, prior to her graduation from Narka High School. They were married on May 25, 1948 after Milton reenlisted in the US Air Force. Shirley found herself moving from the farm to various Air Force bases throughout the US and Europe. Shirley and Milton had 4 children. When moving overseas, Shirley traveled on her own with her children as Milton would travel ahead to secure living quarters for the family. Before each move, she would read to her children about the country and customs along with the country's history, where they would soon be living. They resided in England, France and Germany. Shirley and Milton took their family on vacations to Austria, Belgium, East Berlin, Italy and Switzerland. Milton admired her patience with their children during travels, vacations and just growing up. In every country, Shirley enjoyed making friends with the local people, and the family spent many leisure times with friends, fixing dinners, playing cards and having many laughs. When Milton retired from the Air Force, they moved to Washington State. The family camped all the way from Omaha to Washington, where they eventually settled in Puyallup. After her children were grown, Shirley began a 15 year career as a school bus driver and retired in 1985. During that time, Shirley made good friends with fellow drivers and young children. Many children would get on the bus early to sit and talk to her about their day. Shirley enjoyed cooking and entertaining. She treasured all the holidays and cooking specials meals for family and friends. Even with years of traveling, Shirley loved spending time at the ocean, especially during stormy weather, listening and watching the waves break along the beach. Shirley maintained contact with many people she met over the years, grew up with and family members. Shirley was a loving mother who took wonderful care of all her children, a kind person who was thoughtful to her friends and who always put family first. She will be missed by all who knew her. Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Milton and grandson Kevin Slagle, both of who left us too soon. She is survived by sons Eric Slagle (wife Nancy) and Ric Slagle (wife Catherine), both of Olympia, son Tom Slagle and daughter Trish Slagle, both of Puyallup and 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandson. Graveside services will be held at Woodbine Cemetery, on December 7th at 11am.