Date of Birth: May 23, 1949
Date of Death: April 8, 2026
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Shirley Ann on April 8, 2026, after a long courageous battle with cancer.
Born May 23, 1949 to Edward and Agnes (nee Walchuk) Novakowski, she grew up on the farm along with her sister and grandmother. She spent many carefree days here and honed her passion for gardening and spending time outside.
In 1967 she met the love of her life, Bernard, and they married in 1968. They moved to the Saskatoon area where they raised their three children. She spent much time with the kids and was involved in their school activities as well as their outside interests. Here she met many people that became lifelong cherished friends. Eventually Shirley began her career in retail starting at Sears in Saskatoon. She worked there until she and Bernard moved back to Melville in 1996. She worked for a time at Nellie’s Bakery and then at the Co-op Home Centre until she finally retired. Some of her favourite pastimes were gardening, fishing in the sunshine, scouting with dad and visiting with friends and family. Perhaps her most favourite thing to do was to watch her grandchildren as they persued their passions.
Whether it was dance, hockey or baseball, she was always there beaming with pride.
She was predeceased by her parents and son-in-law Cam Phythian. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Bernard; children Denise, Crystal Phythian and Dale; grandchildren Morgan, Spencer and Carter Phythian; sister Beansie (Darrell Stein); and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Arrangement were by Bailey’s Funeral and Cremation Services, Melville.
