Shirley Ann Helgesen Erickson

 Shirley Ann Helgesen Erickson, passed away December 5, 2019 in the comfort of her family. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday December 11, 2019 at First Alliance Church, 908 47th St So, Great Falls at 1030 AM.

Shirley was born to Elizabeth and Alfred Helgesen on March 15, 1944 in Garrison, North Dakota. She grew up and attended school in Garrison. Shirley attended college and was always eager to continue her education. Shirley’s siblings are Bev Meyers, Bernie Pflieger, Gerry Zuern, Al Helgesen, Kelly Helgesen, and Linda Little.

She married Dennis Christensen and they had two beautiful children, Dennis and Denise. They lived a busy military family life. After many years together they divorced.

In 1995 Shirley moved to Montana to be close to her sister, Linda and her family. In 1998 Shirley married Lynn Erickson. Here Shirley was fortunate to be blessed with Lynn’s son, Paul whom she loved as her own. Shirley worked in the Great Falls area from 1996 to retirement with the Goodwill Easter Seal Society in various capacities including Receivable Supervisor, Job Coach, and Easter Seal Job Placement Specialist. Shirley had a natural, loving way about her that made her a perfect fit for these jobs. She always wanted the best for all the people in her life.

Shirley loved her house, gardening, boating at Holter Lake, visiting with her friends, and most of all her loved ones. One of Shirley’s favorite pastimes was knitting or crocheting blankets, sweaters, and other projects for nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Shirley was so thrilled when her daughter, Denise moved to Great Falls to be close by. Although grandsons, Joshua and Anthony and her beloved great grandchildren, Caleb, Isaiah, Isaac, Avalina, and Anthony were unable to relocate they always remained in her heart and prayers. She loved them dearly. Shirley was very close to her daughter-in-law, Rachelle and her husband, Damon. She found great joy and always loved spending lots of time with grandkids, Spencer, Maci, and Riley who lived nearby. Shirley was deeply loved by all her nieces and nephews. They constantly kept her in their hearts and prayers.

Throughout her life Shirley has had the most amazing friends. Maybe, it’s because she was also an amazing friend to them. Special thanks to Lynn, Helen, Helga, and both her dear Carols. Her family would like to extend a special thanks to the following:

Pastor John and all her “church family” at First Alliance for their tireless love and support.

Amanda Lucas,NP and Gail,Palliative Specialist for their guidance and support during this difficult time.

All the staff at Benefis and Hospice for their kind and compassionate care for our beloved Shirley. Shirley was blessed to have so many that loved and cherished her. We know she is in heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ and all her beloved family and friends. 

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