Andrusiak, Evelyn 'Shirley'

Shirley Andrusiak, age 96, of The Blue Mountains, Ontario, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, at Brightshores Hospital in Meaford, Ontario.

Born on May 19, 1929, in Borden, Saskatchewan, to Vesta and Clifford Wainwright, Shirley grew up on the family farm, where she developed a strong work ethic and a creativity inspired by her Grandmother “Nanny” that would shape her life. She went on to attend the University of Saskatchewan, earning her Bachelor of Education degree. Shirley dedicated more than 30 years to teaching, primarily kindergarten at Langham Elementary School. She was widely regarded as one of Saskatchewan’s most innovative and devoted educators, inspiring generations of young students, before retiring at age 65.

Shirley lived life with style, imagination and joy. An accomplished painter of murals and small watercolours, she later established both an event décor business and a bed and breakfast, sharing her artistic eye and gift for hospitality with many. She was also a passionate ballroom dancer.

She will be remembered for her fun and generous spirit, her beautifully hosted dinner parties and her legendary pies. Above all, Shirley was a steadfast friend, a beloved big sister, a loving mother and grandmother, and a dedicated Christian and member of her faith community.

Shirley is survived by her children Sandra (Allan), Kathryn (David) and Sharon (Jeff); her grandchildren Calum (Bec) and Caitlin (Robert), Paloma (Greg) and Aidan (Gaelle), Darius (Monica) Hope, and Lydia (Josh); her great granddaughters, Cora, Allegra, Ava and Ariana; her siblings Stuart Wainwright (Elaine), Jean Kolback (Ed), Archie Wainwright (Peggy), and Margaret Muzika (Jerry). She was predeceased by her daughter Terri Saunders, her brother Bob Wainwright (Geraldine/Renata), her sister Kathleen Delparte (Don), and her brother Harold Wainwright who died in infancy.

Shirley’s warmth, her creativity, and her unwavering love for her family and friends will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held on Friday September 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Saskatoon Funeral Home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. A lunch will follow the service. The memorial will be livestreamed via the funeral home’s website.

As your expression of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Borden Museum in Borden, Saskatchewan through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON   N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.

Details

A memorial service will be held on Friday September 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Saskatoon Funeral Home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Make a donation in memory of Evelyn 'Shirley' Andrusiak

Donations: Borden Museum in Borden, Saskatchewan
Donate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home


Memories & Messages of condolence

  1. Beverly and Rob Wainwright
    Tuesday, February 24, 2026

    Aunt Shirley was such a wonderful person. She was always so busy with one activity or another. Whether it was painting murals, ballroom dancing, hosting special Robbie Burns nights and special cuisine nights, outings with friends, and even making marionettes for church. I’ll miss our long conversations and sharing stories. She always left me in awe. My deepest condolences to Sandra, Sharon, and Kathryn and your families. Much love to you.

    Reply

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