Shirley Stewart

Shirley; affectionately known as Nana by her family, quietly slipped from this mortal abode after a brief battle with cancer. She is now reunited with her parents and family that preceded her in traversing the portal that we call death. Shirley was the first of two daughters born to Thelma Martin and William C. (Pat) Patterson. Born in Minneapolis, MN, she was raised and lived in North Dakota until 1952, when she married Robert C. Kramer and moved to CA. After returning to ND, two children were born, Robert David (1955) and Laura Susan (1957). After retirement from Qwest, she married William Stewart of Southam, ND. Shirley found the greatest joy in her life being with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also thoroughly enjoyed entertaining family and friends at her lake cabin in Minnesota. Throughout her life, she accumulated many nicknames. Her self imposed hosting responsibilities gave her the nickname the “Food-Pusher”, as she was always trying to satisfy everyone’s hunger long after they had reached their limit. The other nickname that stuck with her was “Hot Rod Nana”, which was given to her for her almost fearless attitude towards other drivers while on the road. Preceding her in death were her parents; husbands Bob and Bill; step-son, Barry Stewart; and great-grandson, Brodan Stewart. Shirley is survived by her son, Robert (Betsy) Kramer; daughter, Laura (Auddie) Cox; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and from her second marriage, one son, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Funeral: Saturday, May 30, 2009, at 10 am at Olivet Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND. Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church. Burial: Salem Cemetery, Fargo, ND.