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Anonymous
8 years ago

I met Shirley many years ago...it was a staff training gathering for Canada World Youth project supervisors. Shirley was bright eyed, creative and fun (great laugh!). I felt like an older sister to her, then. It was the start of a very special friendship that continued, mostly through email, and across many countries. I appreciated her honesty and ability to speak from her heart. I wish she had had more time, time to experience a long term and awesome relationship, time to consider having babies or not, time to enjoy peace and growing older... I think of her often, and know she lives on through all of the people that loved her. My thought and prayers continue for her parents and sister...I am so sorry for your loss.

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Anonymous
8 years ago

Remembering you Shirley on this Humanitarian Day. You are and will always be missed. We thank you for what you gave and sacrificed.

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Anonymous
9 years ago

Smiling eyes, loving heart, joyful and giving. Time cannot erase fond memories that we shared. Its been over nine years since we said goodbye at the airport in Lagos and over six years since you departed this world, still i remember you with smiles. Shirley, you are fondly remembered and always will be. William.

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Anonymous
11 years ago

Shirley The time has passed so quickly and here it is 4 years later, you are still so very much in our hearts and on our minds, I did not want this day to go by without an acknowlegment. You are loved and missed Vicki

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Timothy
12 years ago

It's 2011 and I've only just learned of Shirley's passing. I met Shirley in Ottawa in 1998. We spent 4 months together doing a co-op work term at Nortel. Went to lots of shows together. Ate lots of meals together. And shared each other's company. Then I ran into her in Vancouver a few years later. She was always travelling the world trying to help wherever she could. Such a breath of fresh air and so much fun. I am stunned by the the news of her passing but am pleased that she journeys on. Shirley - you are loved, celebrated and remembered. See you in the next life.

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Valmond Chartrand
13 years ago

I met Shirley, many many years ago in a small town in British Columbia called Smithers while participating in the Katimavik program. I, along with 10 other people lived for almost 3 months with Shirley. She would always make us laugh and smile and had certain way of making us see the "other point of view" trying to open the minds and broaden the horizon a couple of smartass youths who thought they knew everything. I'm sure that there are still pic-niks on the beach and Shoe houses in Heaven. Take Care Shirley Val

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Hugh Schnell
13 years ago

I just realized there is a typo in the location of the memorial site my wife and I created for Shirley. Here is the corrected location details: On the NW 24-1-12-W2 or, Latitude 49.032597N and Longitude -103.291708W, there is a memory stone for our friend, Shirley Case. This stone is also in memory of Nicole Dial and Jacqueline Kirk, who died with Shirley. If you go to the website we created (http://www.shirleycase.com) you will see a Google Earth snap shot of the area. The resolution is not good. Hugh & Heather

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Hugh Schnell
13 years ago

The website above is not working. It is: http://www.shirleycase.com

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Hugh Schnell
13 years ago

I just realized there is a typo in the location of the memorial site my wife and I created for Shirley. Here is the corrected location details: On the NW 24-1-12-W2 or, Latitude 49.032597N and Longitude -103.291708W, there is a memory stone for our friend, Shirley Case. This stone is also in memory of Nicole Dial and Jacqueline Kirk, who died with Shirley. If you go to the website we created (http://www.shirleycase.com) you will see a Google Earth snap shot of the area. The resolution is not good. Hugh & Heather

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Jeff
13 years ago

Shirley...has it been over 2 yrs already? You interviewed, hired and helped to train me in Banda Aceh in 2007. You offered me free hot tea and snacks in your office - so I often came there for these and to just chat. You had to be one of the most welcoming, warm people in the whole compound we had in those stressful days. I could count on you for a laugh, for some tips and for a general feeling of feeling welcome. The last time we talked, it was over carrot juice at some little lunch joint in Aceh..around Feb 2008 I believe. We were talking about career choices and your next move. You wanted to get more involved with youth, girls and education. I'm so glad you had the opportunity to do what you wanted in this life - you made it a better place for so many. Yeah, its been more than 2 yrs, but I still tear up when I think about the fact that you are not of this earth any more. If only we could have another carrot juice and a chat. See you on the other said, friend.

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Anonymous
13 years ago

Forgot to mention in our earlier post that we have created a website for Shirley that includes a picture of the location where her memorial stone is located near Torquay, Saskatchewan, Canada. The site is: http://www.shirleycase.com Regards, Hugh & Heather Schnell

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On the NW 23-1-12-W2 or, Latitude 49.057150N and Longitude -103.488257W, there is a memory stone for our friend, Shirley Case. This stone is also in memory of Nicole Dial and Jacqueline Kirk, who died with Shirley. The memory site is a natural native prairie area with a wonderful abundance of flora and fauna. This site is owned and protected by Shirley’s friends, Hugh and Heather Schnell, of Torquay, Saskatchewan, Canada. On this hill is a rock formation that marks the beginning of the spring, summer, fall and winter seasons. These markers are all aligned for the sunrises on the annual Solstice and Equinoxes. A magnetic direction marker is the center of this alignment. The huge stone for Shirley, Nicole and Jackie radiates the beauty just as the sun rises above the earth’s horizon. Sitting on this stone, you can see for up to 60 kilometers. The smell of the flora is intoxicating. Tears form in your eyes as you reflect and thank God for the chance to have been a small part of their lives. A simple card is placed that reads “Keep God smiling and laughing Shirley Case.” If anyone should care to visit this beautiful site, please come and visit us. We are just a stone’s throw away. Sincerely, Hugh & Heather Schnell

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Jessica Chaikowsky
13 years ago

What an incredible tribute. Love the card inscription: I'm sure she's managing to keep everyone in stitches up there! Best, Jessica

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Aditya Sutedja
14 years ago

I knew Shirley Case when she stayed in my hotel where I worked in Jakarta, she was our regular guest, she always smile and greet every staff. Sometimes we had small chit chat. Beside that she was in the same office with my wife in CARE Jakarta. Rest in Peace my friend...you never forgotten Aditya Indonesia

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angie
14 years ago

shirley was so many things....to try and describe her is like trying to write a thesis on the back of a stamp. what a dear friend, our friendship spanned a decade and several continents. we always managed to stay connected, often sharing our joys, heartaches, and hilarities over emails/msgnr. shirley was one of the brightest lights, such a positive and energetic giver. such a great sense of humour and humility. she always encouraged me to fully experience life and be open to learning and change. it's been over a year since she's been gone and i think of her everyday still. i think all of us struggle to understand the world today and somehow move forward with hope and forgiveness in our hearts. your sacrifice will not be in vain. i love you shirley girly.

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Sandy
14 years ago

Every once in a while someone you meet really makes you think you could do more. Shirley did that for me. Shirley was one of those people that others endevor to be - I met Shirley in University. We both had the same Major, both did work terms at RIV, and then after University, we ran into one another at a training orientation for a Volunteer Mission to Guyana. I never went . It doesn't surprise me that Shirley was in Afghanistan helping people with disabilities. That is right up her alley! It's just the type of person she was. Shirley impacted more people than she will ever know. Perhaps her purpose was to inspire others to give as completely as she did? Sandy

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Vicki Sanford
15 years ago

I've know Shirley since she about 5, they lived down the block from us for 15 years. Deb and Alec are good friends and I enjoyed watching Pam and Shirley grown into lovely young women, both very differant people, and yet so very close. I remember most vividly the girls skating in our back yard most days after school, the neighborhood kids would gather and play till dinner, she always looked out for Pammy, helping her with her mitts and making sure he didn't get picked one because she was the little one. I should have know then she was ment to be a leader, humanitian, soomeone to watch out for the little ones, and I'm sure she still is. Even tho I didn't see her much as she grew older, I still sse that little girl in my mind walking down the road, skates in one hand and her sisters tiny hand in the other. She never knew the things she made me realize about myself. Thank you Shirley Vicki Sanford

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lisa pauchay
15 years ago

you left my to grief you left my on my birthday you left my brother why did you leave us . I know why you left us to teach us all a lesson baby girls I'll always love you for being there for us but to love each other teach us how too be together as a family . but without out you my girls it makes us lonely . little aunt doesn't know what to think .but all I know is that we will be together again as a family when we are gone. in are way indian ways .

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Pamela Lauren
15 years ago

From what I have read, I can tell you are an INCREDIBLE person. You are basically who I want to be when I get older. Your death is truly a tragedy, but I know that you are in a much better place. A person as incredible as you are must be in heaven. I hope to meet you there one day.

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Gerald Davis
15 years ago

I have also received emails from Shirley over the years. I first met her in Bonnyville, Alberta about 6 years ago. I just can't beleive what has happened. She was by far one of the nicest, most profound people I have ever met. I moved to Osoyoos, BC approximately 3 years ago and I was visiting Bonnyville for the first time since I left when I received an email. I know Shirley will live on forever, she will never be forgotten. I hope her family finds some peace along the way, knowing that she was trying to do something better for disadvantaged children. Shirley rest in peace, I will never forget you. Gerald Davis Osoyoos, BC

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Steve Smith
15 years ago

I met Shirley in January this year whilst she was travelling through Malaysia, in between humanitarian assignments. I was then my privilege to spend the next two week travelling with her. As we journeyed through Borneo various travellers joined and left our happy group all of whom were entranced by this warm hearted, compassionate and intelligent Canadian; when we climbed Mt Kinabalu she was there encouraging us on, whilst we trekked through the jungle, on one of ' UncleTan's' expeditions, she was keeping us amused with her knowledge and anecdotes and when we were 'hanging out' for a few days at Kota Kinabalu, you knew that if you were in conversation with Shirley she was really listening to you. We kept in e-mail contact as she took on assignments, first in Chad and then Afghanistan, always playing down any danger she might be in. I have a treasured e-mail sent a few days before she died, typically sweet and full of encouragement and kind words. There are few people in this world who can light up a room merely by stepping into it. Shirley was without doubt a bright star. It is clear to me; from the brief time I spent with her, from reading the testimonies to her, and speaking with others who knew her, that we all feel robbed of a wonderful friend. The news of her death was devastating to me, so I can only imagine the pain of her family and closer friends. It will be of no consolation to them, but those of us whose lives were merely touched by Shirley feel blessed to have known her. The world is a poorer place without her. Rest in peace Shirley. Steve (London, UK)

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Ana Maria
15 years ago

I’ve known Shirley few months ago at the office of CARE in Chad. I used to call her [Chirli] with my terrible Spanish accent, some Chadian colleagues called her [Charlie], but she always answered with the same smile and kindness to all these distortions of his name. I keep good memories of her affable character, her respect for others, her invaluable assistance and encouragement, her humble way to transmit her knowledge and share her experience with her colleagues. I also remember the soirée “frijoles negros and Desperate housewives”, with other friends, before her departure to Abeche. We had a nice evening chaining chapter after chapter. As we all, Shirley asleep, but she fought against sleep, saying: “Oh, I love this show!” Thanks you, Shirley, for your help and your teachings. I will be always grateful. Ana Maria Chad

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Kelley Collens
15 years ago

I went to high school in 100 mile house BC with Shirley. I remember her as being so thoughtful and just full of energy, and very enthusiastic about everything. She always had a smile on her face every time I would see her. She was very dedicated in everything she accomplished. We love you Shirley and may you rest in peace. Kelley Collens Salmon Arm BC

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madina
15 years ago

If only I never had to write this in such circumstances.... I wish I did like you and shared my thoughts of you more often. You left us beautiful memories and stories of your love for people, nature and life. Your determination, energy and committment to humanitarian work and mainly to people always impressed me. I could never understand how you could find the time to do all the wonderful things you did in your life and at work and how at the same time you managed to remain always so present in the lives of people who you knew. Your beautiful smile, incredible courage and unconditional love for people found a very special place in my heart. You will be missed very much... Madina Cornish CARE Canada

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Gillian Barth
15 years ago

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Steve Cornish
15 years ago

I recently had the opportunity of working with Shirley in Chad. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious and will be sorely missed by all who new her. What consoles me is that the source of her determination and drive seemed to me, to come from the fact hat she was following her convictions and living out her vocation. When one embodies the ideals one holds dear then life for a time truly becomes a transcendent dream. Shirley seems to have lived her life on the edges of that dream and in so doing inspired and energized so many of us along the way. My warmest sympathies Steve

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Alawode Tolu
15 years ago

May here soul rest in the bosom of the Almighty God and may She find friendship with her creator. Her track record will keep speaking for her, She was here in Calabar, Nigeria few years back and she stood the test of time on the ground of humanitarian. We will surely miss you Shirley....Adieu!!! Alawode Tolu Calabar, Nigeria

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Frans Pakvis
15 years ago

On behalf of Cordaid I would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences with the relatives, friends and colleagues of Shirly and her colleagues whom got killed as well. I hope they will find comfort and strength and inspiration to deal with the sadness, out of the dear memories they bear in their hearts. Again a great loss of people who are prepared to work and struggle on the frontiers of civilisation and bring along with them one of the most basic elements in our work: hope to those without, regardless themselves. Frans Pakvis HR officer Cordaid The Netherlands

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Brian English
15 years ago

I grew up with Shirley. Our parents were very good friends. We spent many a weekend camping together. We lost touch through high school but she always managed to stop and say hi when we passed each other in the hallway. My fondest memory of her from high school was when my father passed away and I was going through a very tough time. Shirley was one of the only people that offered a shoulder to cry on and someone to talk to. It was great knowing there was someone that cared that much. That is just how Shirley was. A wonderful caring person. Let it be known to her family that her death was not in vain. And what she did achieve in her short time on earth was remarkable and did make a difference. She will always be remembered by everyone who's lives she touched in our tiny little community. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and many other friends. You will be forever missed Shirley. Brian English

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Ahmed Khan
15 years ago

It is really sad to hear about Shirley although I didn't know her. From my side and Staff Members of Save the Children Sweden Pakistan sincere sympathy to her family and friends as all of humantarian workers are working for one cause. So we all are related to each other in a way. May she now rest in blessed peace and may her family and friends find much comfort in memories of happier days perhaps long past but precious all the same.

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Charles Patterson
15 years ago

My heartfelt and deep condolences go out to the communities that Shirley served, her family and friends whom she loved dearly, and many of us in the EPN Network who would truly miss her contributions to the growth and development of the profession. From the pourings of hearts and flow of tears, the departure of Shirley, Nicole and Jackie shall not be in vain.Their mission shall be accomplished by those of us who have been left behind. I didnt know these courageous trio but from those who interacted with them, they were truly humanitarian from their hearts. May God grant them a holy and peaceful resting place, Charles Patterson, Regional HR Manager, Merlin International-Nairobi

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Elaine Sullivan
15 years ago

I didn't know Shirley personally, but heard of her sad loss through the Emergency Personnel Network (EPN) community. People like Shirley are rare, truly courageous individuals, who are willing to put themselves in danger and sacrifice their lives to help others. Shirley's loss only serves to strengthen the determination to continue our work and I find her and others like her a real inspiration. Thoughts and prayers are with family and friends.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

My deepest condolenses go out to all family and friends of Shirley, Jackie and Nicole. It is at times like this that we must reflect on the dedication and sacrifices made by all humanitarian aid workers. The devotion to their work, their drive to assist those less fortunate then they, and the sacrifice made by them and their families should never, and will never, be forgotten. Nick Ayre CARE Canada

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nick
15 years ago

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nick
15 years ago

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nick
15 years ago

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nick
15 years ago

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I think of you often & how you have touched so many, I am so grateful to have known you and so proud and blessed to have had you as my friend. Shirley I hope you are happy and at peace. I know you will always be just a memory away Jennifer

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