Shirley Ann Edwin

Shirley Ann Edwin of Great Falls passed away on March 19, 2024. Shirley was born on August 29, 1927, in Waseca, MN.

She grew up in Mankato, MN and graduated from Good Counsel Academy before attending the College of St. Theresa where she received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Following graduation, she moved to Chicago where she taught nursing students at St. Anthony du Padua for five years. Returning to Minnesota, Shirley worked as an assistant in the endocrine research lab at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. It was during this time that Shirley met her future husband, Russell Edwin, who was completing his residency in ophthalmology.

Shirley and Russell were married on October 31, 1959, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Mankato, MN and then made their way out west and settled in Russell’s hometown of Great Falls. While Russell built his clinical practice, Shirley was busy raising their three children. Throughout her life, Shirley shared a close relationship with her brother-in-law and sister, Harold and Harriett Biedscheid, and their two sons, Rick and Tom.

Eager to volunteer and support her community, Shirley enjoyed several community service roles including directing the CCD program at Sts. Peter and Paul church, tutoring at the College of Great Fall, and leading her daughter’s Girl Scouts troop. A life-long learner, Shirley enjoyed the friendships made and learning opportunities offered through participation in the Travel Club. She also cherished the support and close ties made with her many sorority sisters in the P.E.O.

Shirley is survived by her daughters, Maureen Edwin and Julie (Ed) Mendenhall; son, Mark (Sally Fowler) Edwin; grandchildren, Chad, Brad, Matt, Shawn, Alex, and Emily; and nephews, Rick (Amy) Biedscheid and Tom (Suzanne) Biedscheid.

A vigil will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. followed by a funeral on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Spirit Catholic Church or Covenant House for homeless children.