GARDINER, Shirley Louise

Gardiner
Shirley Louise
(nee Aiken)
30-7-27 to 21-7-24
96 years old
Born and bred in Bundaberg, the daughter of Gallipoli WWI veteran Douglas Aiken and Vena, and sister to Korean War veteran Bill (deceased).
Late of Coolum Beach, died serenely in her sleep at St Mary’s Aged Care Centre. Special thanks to the nursing staff and her extra special carers Di, Bec, Marie, Brenda and Dennis.
Shirley was the undefeated Bundy freestyle champ who passed her surf lifesaving bronze course during WWII and patrolled Bargara Beach until the men came back from the war.
She was proud that she was the only woman in her squad who could pull a surf belt.
A fine hairdresser and later the production line supervisor at Granville tobacco factory in Bundamba.
Married Ipswich rugby league/swimming identity Lester and raised three sons, John, Bill (deceased) and Peter. A devoted grandmother, great grandmother and former Meals on Wheels and Salvos op shop volunteer.
Shirley has proudly donated her body to the QUT medical research centre in Brisbane.
As you used to say Mum, after one of your convoluted but engaging tales … “anyway, to cut a long story short”.
Here’s our hands, here’s our hearts.