Shirley Mae (Johnson) Fritz

Shirley Fritz, beloved wife of the late August (Gus) Fritz passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on May 2, 2026, at the age of 90, 17 days short of her 91st birthday. Shirley will be remembered and deeply missed by her children Don (Gail), Rob (Dana) and Shar (Rod); grandchildren Chad (Danette), Brennan (Erica), Kayla (Greg), Shanna-lea (Justin), Jordynne (Robbie), Braydon (Angela), Krista (Adam), Tanner (Chelsea), Kylie, Charmayne (Riley), Shania (Lane); great grandchildren Brody, Haylee (Wyatt), Cade, Maxon, Cooper, Indianna, Dierkson, Benjamin, Teagan, Perri, Sloan, Maya, Quincy, and Maeve; great-great granddaughter Poppy. Shirley is also survived by her brother Earl (Marion), brothers in law Russ, Ron (Linda), sister-in-law Ethel as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and dear friends. Shirley is predeceased by the love of her life Gus in February 2018. She was also predeceased by her parents Bert and Lola, Brother Don, sister Doris and daughter-in-law Cindy.

Shirley was born in Stavely, AB on May 19, 1935, to Bert and Lola Johnson. She started school at the old Beaver Heights school at Beaver Creek in the Porcupine Hills. When that school closed, they opened a school at Johnson Brothers Sawmill Camp 1. She moved to Lethbridge to attend LCI for grades 10, 11 and 12. Shirley then continued her education at the Galt Hospital to become a radiologic technologist. While in school for this she met her love Gus and they married on September 3, 1955. They moved to Johnson Brothers Sawmill at Heath Creek Cam in the Porcupine Hills. There they started their family, 2 sons Don and Rob and a daughter Sharleen. In July, 1963 they moved to Pincher Creek where they made their home. As the kids grew Shirley worked at the Bunny Bar Drive In, Boytinck’s and St. Vincents Hospital in administration then moving to her skill as an x-ray technician until her retirement. After her retirement Gus and Shirley wintered in Mesa, Arizona and enjoyed their summers in Pincher Creek with their friends and family. She enjoyed curling, golfing and most of all hosting family dinners. Shirley’s life revolved around her love of Gus and her family. As the family grew, so did the pride and joy in her heart.

Ten years ago, Shirley was diagnosed with dementia and through the years of struggle she fought hard. This continued until Saturday May 2, when she let go and went to be with Gus. Her mind and body are at rest now. She will forever be in our hearts!! Love you mom, Nana (Grandma).

We would like to extend our sincerest thank you and gratitude to Dr. Michael Cunningham, the 3rd floor staff at Legacy Lodge from fall 2020 to fall 2025, and especially the staff of the South Cottage at Legacy Lodge for the outstanding care, compassion and love you gave Mom during her last few months with us.

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