Shirley Ann Kaelin

SHIRLEY ANN MATTSON KAELIN

Shirley Ann Mattson Kaelin was born on August 28, 1928.  She had an older brother, John.  Her mother, Anna, passed when Shirley was only 3 years old.  Shirley fought through polio at age 4.  That must have been where all her determination and spunk came from.  She met the love of her life, Art Kaelin, while attending High School in Buckley, which is now White River High School.  She was a cheerleader and avid tennis player, which she played into her fifties.  She married Art on September 6, 1947, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Buckley.  They had 5 children; Jenny, Dean, Shelly, Greg and Kurt, whom they raised with love, faith and respect.  Shirley had 14 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.  There was a tremendous amount of love, respect, and compassion in our family.

Mom touched so many lives.  She gave great advice to so many friends and to her children’s friends.  Whether they liked it or not at the time – they always came back for more!  She mentored many in the community as well.  She was such a supporter of White River schools and all sports, attending many games for her children and many games that her children were not even participating in.  Everyone loved coming to the farm; adults and kids loved to eat Mom’s home cooked meals, get free haircuts and lots of advice!  Sometimes her advice came from the bleachers at ball games which of course many people can attest to!  Everyone knew Mom’s voice!  Her love and support for White River sports was obvious as she was always in the bleachers two hours before game time. 

Wherever us kids were, people always asked how Mom was doing and said, “Tell her I said hi!” or “Give her a big hug!”.  This only proved how her love spilled over and has gone full circle.

We would like to thank Cascade Place Assisted Living for the love and care everyone there showed Mom.  Mom and Dad were married 65 years!  On Monday, September 11, 2023, Mom decided to take the journey through the gates of Heaven to be with Dad and all her loved ones who passed before her.  Donations may be made to:

The Alzheimer’s Foundation

American Cancer Society

The Parkinson’s Foundation

St. Aloysius Church Buckley

Thank you to everyone for your love and support, thoughts, and prayers.  A private family service will be held at a later date.

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