Shirley (Fine) Bertwell, 82, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital on the afternoon of Aug. 6, surrounded by her loving children. She was reunited with her husband, Ken, who passed away on Sept. 10, 2017.
She was born on May 26, 1936, to William C. Fine and Ella Veloris (Smith) Fine in Wichita, Kansas. She was an only child. She grew up in Iola, Kansas, where she attended school until the family moved to Leadville, Colorado, where she finished her schooling. After her graduation from high school, her family moved to Moab in the early 1950s.
Shirley worked as a telephone operator for Midland Telephone Company. She later met, and married, her lifetime partner, Ken, on June 2, 1961. After starting their family, Shirley left the job she loved, dedicating herself to being a stay-at-home mom and homemaker.
She enjoyed sewing and making most of her children’s clothing. Other interests included crocheting, crossword and jigsaw puzzles. Browsing in antique shops and traveling brought her much joy. Shirley also was an animal lover; she and dad always had pets, even adding new ones up until the time of her death. Bowling was the focus and the family life, serving as both business and pleasure. Many happy memories were built around the tournaments that they participated in.
Hospitality was another one of her gifts. Her home was opened to everyone, and many Thanksgiving dinners found new and old friends gathered around the table. Shirley thoroughly loved being a mom and mentor. She loved her children completely and unconditionally. She held a special place in her heart for her firstborn, Bobby, always advocating and supporting him without fail. Our loss is deep and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her, especially her children and grandson. Thank you, mom, for being mother, grandmother and friend.
Throughout her life though Shirley had many challenges and hardships. She faced each with remarkable courage and strength and always with her beautiful smile and gentle spirit.
Shirley is survived by her children, Bobby, Kerrie, Paula; and grandson Brandon; sister-in-law, Janet (Jeff) Jones; many nieces and nephews, cousins and an aunt and uncle.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Ken, of 55 years; her parents, William C. and Ella Veloris Fine; and many aunts and uncles and one niece.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Shirley Bertwell’s name to Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab, or to Moab Animal Shelter, 965 Sand Flats Rd., Moab.
At Shirley’s request, cremation has taken place, and services will be held on Friday, Aug. 24, at 1 p.m. at the Spanish Valley Mortuary, with a burial service at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com.
