Skip to content

Shirley KOPSTEIN

February 3, 2005

Shirley Ann Kopstein (nee Manderson) passed away in Chilliwack February 3, 2005 at the age of 58 years. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church. Fr. Gino Aloisio, Celebrant. Interment in St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cemetery.

Casket Bearers: Jeff Tisdale, Ian Tisdale, Ted Tisdale, John Manderson, Ashley Fulcher and Wayne Fulcher.

Shirley was known throughout her life for her generous soul and her friendly manner. She made the best of every situation, taking joy in each new day and the challenges it brought. Following graduation from high school, Shirley joined the Canadian Forces. In 1967 she served in the R.C.A.F. in Clinton and London, Ont. and Gagetown, N.B. She was in the Financial Department of the Forces. After leaving the Air Force in 1972 she moved to Victoria, B.C. and thence to Ottawa, Ont. in 1974. In 1984 Shirley was in Calgary, Alta. for two years and following that in Kingston, Ont. for 9 years. While living in the nation’s capital of Ottawa she worked for six years in the public service of Canada. She worked very hard in this field elevating her position on a consistent basis and was held in high esteem by her co-workers and her supervisors.

In 1995 she came west to Chilliwack. Shirley traveled extensively visiting several European countries, including Germany and the UK. Her travels took her to Florida, California and various other locations in the US and Mexico. She also found time to take a cruise to Alaska. Her hobbies included making afghans, which were prized by friends and acquaintances. She loved music and attended numerous concerts and was particularly fond of military band music. In the last few years Shirley involved herself with the Kinsman Club. She made frequent visits to “Family Place” as well as other favourite spots to share her homemade cookies and was known as the “cookie lady”. Shirley made a point to remember birthdays and special events by sending out beautiful cards and notes to her friends and her family. Whenever there was a live concert or a musical in town, she was always front seat and center Shirley was often seen walking throughout the community, admiring the surrounding mountains as well as the beauty found in each and every flowerbed. She was very proud of her knowledge of the Yukon and the Sourdough as she spent time there as a child with her family and often quoted poems of Robert Service. Her favourite poem was the “Law of the Yukon”. This is the law of the Yukon that only the Strong shall thrive: That surely the Weak shall perish and only the Fit survive. The value of relationships with family and friends were a priority to Shirley. She will be missed dearly for her positive attitude, corny jokes, compassion and laughter. Shirley is survived by brothers: Tom (Theresa) Manderson of Goderich, Ont.; John (Holly) Manderson of Kelowna, B.C; sisters: Irene (Ted) Tisdale of Chilliwack; Lillian Manderson of Goderich, Ontario and Carol (Wayne) Fulcher of Merritt, BC.

She was predeceased by her brother, Jim Manderson, February 12, 2000. Should family and friends so desire, donations in her memory may be made to the Chilliwack Community Services.



Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.