Shirley Ann Larsen

Shirley Ann Larsen (Haugen) peacefully passed away on April 26th at St. John’s United in Billings, Montana. Shirley was 88 years old. She was preceded in death by her son, Marty, her parents, her husband, Robert Allen Larsen, and her brother Edwin Victor Haugen. Shirley was born May 11, 1935 near Berthold, North Dakota to Alice and Victor Haugen. She was the first of four children. Her siblings include Christine (Shipton) of Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Edwin Haugen of Berthold, North Dakota (deceased) and Clare (Dendinger) of Roseville, California. Shirley and her siblings grew up on the Haugen family farm and cattle ranch near Berthold, North Dakota with their mother and father. The children all grew up with a love for music, thanks to their father, Victor. Christmases and Christmas music were especially cherished by the children and grandchildren throughout the years. Shirley and her siblings went to elementary school in a one room schoolhouse about one mile from their home. They would either walk or travel by horse and sleigh each day. In later years, Shirley attended and graduated from high school at Dakota Lutheran Academy in Minot. She further developed her musical ability by singing in the choir and in various groups throughout her time at Dakota Lutheran. She graduated from Dakota Lutheran in 1954. She continued her studies and graduated from Minot teacher’s college in 1961. Shirley met her future husband, Robert Allen Larsen, from Coulee, North Dakota at Dakota Lutheran. They married on July 15th, 1956. They had five children, Debra Husar (John), Marty (deceased), Brian, Reid (Jody), and Melissa. They lived in Wildrose, Minot, Rugby and Grand Forks, all in North Dakota, and then settled in Glendive, Montana, where they lived for forty years. They both worked in various teaching positions throughout their lives. During the summers they took the family camping. One of their favorite places to camp was at Moon Lake in the Riding Mountain National Park in Manitoba. When they moved to Glendive, they continued to camp in various places in Montana, including the Fort Peck Reservoir and campgrounds in Red Lodge. They both continued to be involved in various music events, Shirley always singing in the church choir. When they retired, they became snowbirds and went to Alamagordo, New Mexico during the winters. On holidays, they spent time with their children and grandchildren. Her husband, Robert passed away in June of 2009. She eventually moved to Red Lodge, which was a favorite place of Bob and Shirley’s. She found a nice little home in Red Lodge and every once in a while, was known to say, “I live here!” She lived there with her little dog, Sophie. While in Red Lodge, she was an active member of the garden club. For 12-15 years, she enjoyed traveling with her sisters and nieces in Canada and the US. She continued to go to Alamagordo for a few more years after her husband’s passing. Eventually, as she grew older, her daughter, Melissa moved in with her to help care for her. She enjoyed visits by her other children and grandchildren throughout her time in Red Lodge. After a severe fall, she eventually was ready for a greater level of care and moved into St. John’s United, where she stayed until her passing. She was well cared for there, and she lovingly referred to it as her “house.” She had frequent visits by her children and grandchildren and the family dogs. She also enjoyed visits from her Red Lodge neighbors and hospice members as well. We will miss you Mom. A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, May 13, 2024 in the Dawson County Cemetery with Pastor Avis Anderson officiating. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements. Remembrances and condolences can be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.

Shirley Ann Larsen

May 11, 1935 - April 26, 2024

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Shirley Ann Larsen

May 11, 1935 - April 26, 2024

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

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