Shirley Mae Tanskanen

Shirley Mae Tanskanen, 63, died Monday December 19, 2011 at her home in Laurel. She was born to Vernon and Velma (Baker) Reierson in Echo, MN October 31, 1948. Shirley grew-up in Huntley and attended and graduated from Huntley Project Schools in 1967. She married her soul mate Gerald Alan Tanskanen August 21, 1976 in Powell, WY. She worked as a beatician until the arrival of her oldest son in 1979. She also worked at Town Pump in Laurel and Billings as a deli cook until she retired in 2008. Her interests included singing with friends and family, drawing and riding horses. She enjoyed cutting hair for the elderly, volunteering her services. Shirley was one of those carng and compassionate individuals that loved talking to new and old friends alike. She never had a sour word to say to anyone. Shirley was a mother that loved and cherished her children and busband. Left to cherish Shirley's memory is her husband Gerald; children Jason, Shelley and Lisa;brothers Robert Reierson and Joseph (Gail) Reierson and niece Laura. Mrs. Tanskanen was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Gary Griffin, brother David Vern Reierson, niece Ashley Lee and a nephew Ryan. A Celebration of Shirley's life will be held 7:00pm Tuesday December 27, 2011 at the Remington Letcher Memorial Chapel. Memorial condolences can be made in Shirley's name to the American Cancer Society of Montana or the charity of your choice.

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