Shirley lived and worked throughout Vancouver Island and BC.   She was born in Port Alberni, where she married and raised her beloved sons.  After moving to Parksville in 1972, she co-owned and operated the Sunset Lanes bowling alley for eight years.   Following that career, she farmed in Hilliers for many years, with a few years off to live at Meziadin Lake and enjoy time in Gran Isle.   She spent a few years living in Port McNeill before retiring back to Parksville.

She was most proud of her family.  She is survived with sadness by her sons Dave (Roberta) Hendrickson and Jim Hendrickson.   Dearly missed by her brother Ray Pernoski, and her sisters-in-law Karen Mullin and Marlene Smythe.   Fondly remembered by her grandchildren Jara (Neil), Dustin, Robert, Preston (Marjie), Haylee (James) and great-grandchildren Kyle, Leila, Rayna, and Paisley.   She enjoyed the company of numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.   Throughout her life, she delighted in spending time with children, there are many photos of her happy grins as she played with the kids.  Shirley was predeceased by her husband Tom Sjoquist, parents Jim and Elizabeth Pernoski, her brother Bob Pernoski, and great-grandson Dylan Hendrickson.    

Shirley was an active member of Lioness for 34 years, working tirelessly to raise money for those less fortunate than she.  After retiring to Parksville, she volunteered for Parksville Community Policing.  Fierce supporter of her family and her friends, bowling instructor, gardener, knitter, bookkeeper, care aide and baker, she was a thoughtful and caring woman.  Among her recent papers was this note:   “I was given the gift of life and now I have to give it back; but I was a lucky woman who led a rewarding life”.

Family and friends will gather to remember and honour Shirley at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, and if you wish, donations to BC Children’s Hospital or the Canadian Cancer Society would touch Shirley’s heart.