It is with great sadness, we announce the passing of SHIRLEY ABBIE (BAILIE) GOUW, beloved wife of 60 years to Jim Gouw. Shirley passed away at St. Mike's Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit on Thursday, March 17, 2022, at the age of 80 years. 

She was a loving mother to Connie (Yvan) Audet of Strathmore, Cindy (Clint) Marr of Twin Butte, and Shawn (Susan) Gouw of Skiff. She has 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son Richard, parents Dick and Lelah Bailie, Jim's parents Arie and Bastiaanje Gouw, as well as seven sisters-in-law, five brothers-in-law, one niece, and four nephews. 

She was raised on the family farm and attended school in Skiff and Foremost until 1950 when the family purchased another home in Taber so the children could attend school there. 

After high school, she worked at the Taber Hospital. In 1959, she met the love of her life, Jim. They were married in 1961 and began their life together in Barnwell. Their daughter Connie and son Richard were born while living in Barnwell. In the fall of 1963, they returned to the family farm in Skiff. Cindy was born in 1964 and Shawn completed the family in 1970. 

Shirley truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures. She loved vacationing, however, camping was her favourite. She was fortunate enough to camp throughout Canada and the US. Shirley will always be remembered as a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME - 2825 32^nd Street South, Lethbridge, AB - on Friday, March 25, 2022, at 2:00 PM with Reverend Dewald Delport officiating.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you take a moment to hug your loved ones. Time waits for no one.