Shirley Maxwell, loving wife, mother and grandma, passed away at home on Sunday, May 14, 2017, surrounded by her family.
Shirley was born on Nov. 20, 1931 to Henry and Clara (Duim) Dykstra and grew up on a little dairy farm in the Lynden area. She had two sisters Doris and Clarice and a brother Dale. Shirley graduated from Lynden High School. As a single gal, Shirley won the International Plowing Match for her age bracket, which showed her strong work ethic.
Shirley met Gordon Maxwell at a dance and 45 days later on Aug. 14, 1958, they were married in Bellingham. Gordon’s military career allowed Shirley to join him and together they enjoyed traveling the world. After Gordon retired, they settled back in Whatcom County and Shirley became a bookkeeper for Trillium Corporation. She was known for being intelligent and a great cook, and she loved to do needlework.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Gordon; sister Clarice Mellema; brother-in-law Richard Vander Haak; and son-in-law Duncan Hamilton.
She is survived by daughter Landen Hamilton and her children Thomas Jackert and Erica Jackert and great-grandsons Blake and Hunter; son Ed and daughter-in-law Karen Maxwell and their son Andrew; sister Doris Vander Haak; brother Dale Dykstra; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
You are invited to share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.
