It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Shirley Diner on November 7, 2017.
Predeceased by her loving husband Dr. Allan E. Diner. Cherished mother of Janis Diner Brinley (Dana), Barbara Kowall (Sydney), Steven Bruce Diner and sister Audrey Stall.
She leaves a huge hole in the hearts of her treasured grandchildren Andrew Kowall (Candace), Madeline Lopez Ficher (Federico), Robert Brinley and great grandchildren Ruby Kowall, Eli and Jonah Lopez Ficher.
Shirley recently celebrated her 91st birthday with great joy surrounded by her family. Her indomitable spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Gramma Shirley deeply loved spending time with each one of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Known for her extraordinary culinary talents, Shirley enjoyed creating fantastic themed dinner parties, sumptuous family meals and elaborate care parcels.
Her flair for style and design was evident in everything she did. Mom was a trendsetter and enjoyed dressing up, never leaving the house without her red lipstick.
Shirley described the Winnipeg Art Gallery as her “home away from home” serving with the Volunteer Associates for 52 years. She chaired several committees and was a long standing member of two art study groups, one since 1957.She took great pleasure in attending a variety of arts and cultural events; particularly the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and going to the movies.
Mom and Dad loved travelling, exploring many countries around the world. In recent years she enjoyed extended visits with her family in Victoria.
Her passing is a reminder of how precious life is, to live each day to its fullest, filled with love.
The family is very grateful for the loving support of Shirley‘s special friend Grace Fracz.
A heartfelt thank you to caregivers Ethel and Mafi.
We will lovingly continue Shirley’s tradition of ending every singing of Happy Birthday with “Good evening friends”.
Funeral services were held on November 9, 2017 at Congregation Shaarey Zedek.
Pallbearers were Andrew Kowall, Robert Brinley, Federico Lopez Ficher, Bruce Ames, Marvin Samphir, Joel Samphir and Daniel Samphir.
Donations may be made to Congregation Shaarey Zedek Minyan Fund, Winnipeg Art Gallery or the Humane Society.
“Stand still long enough for the butterfly to land on your nose.”
