Shirley Waterson Vander Vorste left us and went home to our loving Father July 26, 2007, after an 11-year struggle with breast cancer.

She was born to Bill and Frieda Waterson, Aug. 11, 1947, in Rapid City. Shirley grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota and graduated from Sturgis High School.

She married Dwight Vander Vorste, Aug. 21, 1966, and moved to Royal City in the fall of 1968. She was active in the community, her church, and The Public School Employees of Washington.

Shirley worked for the Royal School District for 30 years as an educational assistant, Librarian and for the last 15 years as the Administrative Assistant to the Food Service Director. She enjoyed her job and its challenges.

She was active in Public School Employees and served her local chapter in various leadership positions over the years, and served on the state level as a Zone Director and as the State Treasurer for eight years. Shirley enjoyed her grandchildren, quilting, and gardening. She was a Volunteer for Grant Co. Fire Dist. 10 as an Emergency Medical Technition.

Her brother, David Waterson, preceded her in death.

She is survived by her husband, Dwight Vander Vorste of Royal City, Wash.; her daughter, Kristen Montieth and husband, Marc, of Bonny Lake, Wash.; her son, Michael Vander Vorste and wife, Amy, of Sioux Falls; her parents, Bill and Frieda Waterson of Spearfish; her brother, Jim Waterson and wife, Becky, of Wright, Wyo.; her sister, Vera Huber and husband, Richard, of Newcastle, Wyo.; and five grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service in Shirley's honor Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Whitewood with Pastor David Baer officiating.
Condolences can be sent to Shirley's family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.