Shirley Ann Wheeler (nee Gillum)

Shirley Ann Wheeler (nee Gillum)

Age 89, of Cottage Grove formerly of Woodbury

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Shirley Ann Gillum Wheeler, at the age of 89.  Shirley was married to the love of her life, Hal Wheeler, for 54 years before he passed away in December 2010.  She battled a rare condition called Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) for just over 12 years. This progressive disease stole her speech, affected her motor skills, and changed her way of life. She rallied through each phase of decline and impressed everyone with her determination and tenacity, and still remained the incredible person who loved her family and friends.   

Shirley was born in Logansport, Indiana. Once married, she and Hal lived in San Diego, Ft. Worth, Texas, and raised their two girls in Kansas City, Missouri. After retirement, they traveled full-time for two years in their motorhome visiting many states and making memories.  

Ultimately, Hal and Shirley settled in Deming, New Mexico, where they made life-long friends. They loved traveling to the Gila Mountains, enjoying hikes, picnics, and historical places. Another favorite was visiting close-by Palomas, Mexico with friends and family. Shirley moved to Minnesota in November 2017, where she lived with her daughter and her husband for several years before transferring to a long-term care facility.    

Shirley leaves behind two daughters, Lori Ann (Alan) and Susan Marie (Mark), as well as grandchildren, Aimee (Brody), Ryan (Cindle), Eric, Andrew (Sara) and Rawley. Plus, many great grandchildren, Adalynn, Colton, Whit, Ella, and Nora.  Her family will always carry Shirley in their hearts.