Shirley M. Clouse

After sharing 65 years of marriage and adventure, Shirley Clouse slipped peacefully away with her husband Jim at her side. She was 83. Shirley was born in Minot, North Dakota on October 2nd, 1938 to Lola and Lester Molzahn. Her father died while serving in WWII on the USS Birmingham. Shirley, her Mother, and loving Stepfather John Baklenko migrated to Sacramento, California. They eventually moved to Coeur D' Alene, Idaho where Shirley finished High School. Shirley then attended Kinman Business school in Spokane. Jim and Shirley married in 1957. They were true soulmates and partners. Together they raised 2 boys, Pat and Dave. The family moved to Chelan in 1962 for Jim's first and lasting teaching job. When the boys were older, Shirley commuted to WVC and CWU to attain her Elementary Teaching Degree in math and science. Shirley was a lifetime member of both the Washington Education Association as well as the National Educational Association. She loved teaching and it is evident that she made a positive difference in so many children's lives. Many times we have received notes or comments from former students with messages for Shirley relating how important she was in their young lives. This is such a wonderful testament for the type of woman Shirley was. Shirley and Jim loved their lives on the lake as well as in the surrounding mountains. They spent much of their free time hiking and boating. What a great way for raising a family. Early on these multi-day trips were accomplished with Shirley in saddle shoes, and carrying canned goods. Later hikes may have utilized improved equipment, but were no less fun. Shirley was game for a challenge. They even took their Gold Wing motorcycle to Canada. Their love of the outdoors was instilled in their boys and later with grandchildren. After the boys had grown, Jim and Shirley enjoyed relaxing at Daisy Weaver Campground in their boat, as well as exploring much of the west coast in their 5th wheel. During retirement, Jim and Shirley took many cruises to exotic locations. They also spent many winters at Oceanside California in a condo, gazing at the sea. They capped off long distance travel with a dream trip exploring Europe, driving a rental car for much of it. Shirley worked hard to accomplish their life together. She planted trees for the forest service, worked at the Chelan Clinic, worked at Kibby's and many other jobs. She spent her teaching career at Chelan Grade School. She was a meticulous planner, list maker, cook, and boy scout mom. She was very proud of her boy's and husband's accomplishments. We thank her for the wonderful traditions she established. She was a charter member of Guild Y and a Bridge Club member. Those friends and her school community became dear, lifetime friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother Bill Baklenko. She is survived by her husband Jim of whom she wished to say, "So easy to love, so hard to leave". Also, sons Pat Clouse (Roxanne), Dave Clouse (Sue), Grandchildren Jerred Clouse (Morgan), Sawyer Clouse (Amy), Charley Clouse, Sean Clouse, and 1 great grandchild. We look forward to sharing stories and fellowship with friends and family at a celebration of life to be held later in the spring. In lieu of flowers, feel free to donate to an organization of your choice or perhaps give a bouquet in her name to a favorite teacher or person in your life. She loved her garden and waterfall, and would wish that you may also find time to experience peace in nature's quiet beauty and the love of friends and family. A private Graveside Service for family will be held at Riverview Cemetery in Chelan, January 20th. Arrangements are by Chapel of the Valley.

Shirley M. Clouse

October 2, 1938 - January 6, 2022