PANTING, SHIRLEY
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley June Panting (nee Dawson) in her 90th year on Saturday February 8, 2025 after a long hard fought battle with COPD.
Beloved and devoted wife of the late Ronald Panting. Loving mother of Debbie Masciantonio and her husband Tony, and of Chris Panting. Proud grandma of 6. Treasured Gigi of 8. Dear sister of Tim, George, Donna and Ray, all predeceased. She was a cherished aunt, sister-in-law, cousin and friend.
Shirley was born in Scarborough on August 9, 1935. She moved to Midhurst in 1955 when she was 20 years old and met the love of her life, Ron. They had spent over 66 years together when Ron passed away in September of 2023. Her life was one of experiences, adventures, hardships, resilience, strength and courage. Everyone who met Shirley would instantly be aware of her kindness, her vitality, strong work ethic, her perseverance to overcome adversity and her fierce unwavering dedication to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Shirley had a variety of jobs over the years beginning with becoming an Avon representative in our village of Painswick, and babysitting many of the neighbourhood children before and after school and in the summers. Once Debbie and Chris were older, she began a 25 year employment history with a number of factories in Barrie; leaving the work force at age 57 due to her struggles with COPD.
Shirley and Ron loved to travel and were very fortunate to be able to visit all the provinces in Canada and every single state in the US except for Hawaii. She collected sets of playing cards from many of the places they visited. These playing cards were used in her weekly schedule of playing euchre with a group of ladies in the neighbourhood; enjoying their companionship for many years and their summer and Christmas potlucks.
Shirley loved to bake and her phenomenal butter tarts and pies were always on many people’s request lists. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting as evidenced by the many sweaters, socks, and afghans given to family members. The television show, “Days of Our Lives” is losing one of its biggest long-time fans.
We will miss her smile, her laugh, her kisses and hugs, but she will live on in our hearts. Shirley is at peace; no longer struggling to breathe and she is reunited with Ron whom she loved and missed so much.
As per Shirley’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral. A celebration of Life for Shirley and Ron will be held later in the year.
If desired, donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to the Lung Health Foundation or Hospice Simcoe where her husband Ron spent his final days.
Online memories, condolences, and words of comfort may be forwarded to the family via www.steckleygooderham.com
“LOVE YOU!”