Shirley Osborn passed away September 3rd, 2023, in Mesa, AZ.
She had 93 years of vibrant adventure on this earth.
Shirley was born on April 21st, 1930, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Edmond and Orise (Jennings) Lorette. Edmond was career military, which ensured they moved around to various stations including Panama and Guam from where she recounted wonderful memories.
Shirley was working at PX in Fort Hood, Texas when she met Dean Norum. They married, and while Dean served overseas in the military, Shirley moved to Minneapolis, to live with Deans parents. After leaving the military, Dean returned to Minneapolis where Diana and Odin were born. They later moved to North Dakota where they put down roots. Here, she achieved her master’s in education degree and taught in the Dickinson Public School System for 26 years before moving permanently to Mesa, Arizona.
Shirley was always volunteering, whether it was serving meals at the clubhouse or reading books to children. She was active in Eastern Star, St. Lutheran Church in Dickinson, ND, and to Victory Lutheran Church in Mesa.
Shirley was fortunate to have so many wonderful friends throughout her life. She really lived life to the fullest, enjoying activities that included snowmobiling, fishing, camping, golfing. playing cards, watching movies, and always reading books. Oh, did we mention she loved playing cards?! Her greatest joy was any interaction with family and friends. Everyone was greeted with a warm hug, a listening ear, and an open heart.
Shirley was proceeded in death by husbands Dean, Earl, and Buzz, her brother, Richard Lorett, son, James Osborn, son-in-law, Bill Pardee, Snr., and grandson, Joel Pardee. She is survived by her children, Odin Norum, Diana (Norum) Pardee, Kathleen (Dick) Cooper, Ann (Chip) Fisher, and sister-in-law, Jan Lorette. Grandchildren include Cheryl, Matthew, Rachel, Julie, Justin, Jamie, Danielle, Layne, Kristine, Kathleen, Madison, Jaxson, and numerous great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 9th, in the clubhouse at The Groves at Alta Mesa, 5848 University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85205.
Donations may be made to Victory Lutheran Church (Mission Outreach), 5946 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ, 85205.
Odin and Diana, so happy to have lived beside and known your mother. What a wonderful lady!
Odin and Diana, so happy to have lived beside and known your mother. What a wonderful lady!