Shirley Mae (Peterson) Bennett died peacefully June 6, 2014, in Grand Rapids, MN, in the company of her four children, Charles (Livermore, CA), Peter (Tempe, AZ), Robert (Grand Rapids, MN) and Bill (Kent, WA). Shirley was born June 13, 1922 in Duluth, MN to Lester and Florence Peterson. She attended Denfeld High School, and St Scholastica College. After several years working as a medical tech at St Mary's Hospital in Duluth, she enlisted in the Navy, and very happily served on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay. She met her future husband Bob Bennett on a fishing trip to Pike Lake, where her naval competence and calm demeanor shone, marking the beginning of a great marriage. Throughout her years, she was actively engaged in community affairs as an avid gardener, expert Bridge player, costume designer (GR Showboat), active AAUW and PEO member, and well-informed reader in book clubs. She spent her last four years tended by a wonderful, caring staff, first at the Manor House (GR) then at Diamond Willow (GR). At both locations, she was famous for breaking into song at any moment, cheering up staff and friends. She was literally singing on the last day of her life, and her four children returned the favor in her last hours, singing her gently and lovingly out of this world. A memorial service will be arranged in Duluth, later in the summer. See online guestbook at www.andrews-libbeyfh.com. Arrangements by Andrews-Libbey Funeral Home & Cremation Services. 218-326-4000.