Shirley Steele

Shirley S. Steele, 88, of Boulder, passed away on August 12, 2013 at her home. Shirley was born in Punxsutawney, PA on July 9, 1925 to Floyd and May Straitiff. Mark and Shirley were married in Pittsburgh on October 1, 1959. Shirley graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master’s degree in Psychology. She took special interest in The Boulder Oral History Project. In 1994 Shirley was awarded the United Way Service volunteer of the year. Shirley was a loving wife, wonderful mother, a grandmother, a sister and a great friend. She had a great spirit. She was curious about everything. She loved travelling and learning about the world. She studied languages, poetry, calligraphy, and history. She was a seamstress, quilter, and fabric artist. She had a sharp wit. She was determined, brave, trusted her judgement in everything and most importantly, could see through the clutter to the most important part of any situation. She is loved and will be missed dearly. Shirley is survived by her husband; children, Anne Steele, Vicki Cotton (Bill), and Emily Steele; siblings, Richard Straitiff and Dona Groer and grandson, Galen Cotton. Funeral services will be held at Congregation Har HaShem on Wednesday, August 14 at 10:00 in the morning. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Boulder Reads.