Obituary of Shirley Ann Dyck

On Saturday, May 15th Frank (1930-1985), Barry (1961-1995) and Michael (1967-2014) Dyck were reunited with their beloved wife and mother, Shirley (nee Morrison, 1936-2021). Shirley died peacefully in hospital, with her daughter by her side, from complications of Parkinson’s disease. Shirley will be dearly missed by her daughter Carolyn (Dean Ertel) and the three jewels in her crown of contentment, her grandchildren: Alison, Eric and David Bromley, along with a multitude of nieces, nephews and treasured friends. 

Shirley was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, the youngest daughter of John and Grace Morrison. She married the young and ambitious medical student, Frank Dyck, at the tender age of 19. Together Frank and Shirley shared 30 years of adventure - all of which Shirley loved and embraced. Early on they lived in Birmingham, England for three years as Frank received his Obstetrics training. Shirley, with her love of history, packed up young Barry and explored all the cathedrals and castles that were in any way accessible. They then returned to Saskatoon where Carolyn joined the fold and then young Michael was adopted. Frank’s practice exploded and Shirley became the devoted wife and mother, shepherding children to school and lessons and entertaining Frank’s friends and colleagues (this was always supplemented with general interest courses at the University of Saskatchewan). Shirley and Frank’s last great adventure was in Saudi Arabia where they lived for four years. They traveled extensively, before returning - with 52 carpets! Upon Frank’s death in 1985, Shirley decided to go back to University and study theology “for fun”. This part time interest grew into a long and deeply impactful career. Shirley became the minister at Glebe Road United Church, which was considered to be a dying congregation. Instead of winding things down and shutting off the lights, Shirley rolled up her sleeves and gave it all she had. By the time she retired nine years later the congregation had quadrupled in size and there was a strong and vibrant Sunday School. Shirley stayed on at Glebe Road until the end, even occasionally making it onto a Zoom meeting! In later life Shirley kept her fierce mind alive and sharp through voracious reading and participating in various University groups. She was so happy in her apartment at Christie Gardens where she was surrounded by dear friends. 

Shirley faced an unspeakable tragedy in her life with the loss of both of her beloved sons. Her strength and her deep and abiding faith helped her pull through and spread her vision of a loving and compassionate God. Shirley’s beautiful spirit has touched so many. A special thank you goes out to the staff at Christie Gardens, all of whom treated Shirley with kindness and respect. Shirley was greatly comforted in later life by her niece Barbara Morrison, who would spend hours on the phone comforting her with prayer, and her trusted companion Felicia.

We will gather in Shirley’s beloved Glebe Road United Church sanctuary when COVID restrictions have been lifted. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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