Shirley Ann Emerson

Shirley Ann Emerson, 83, of Grand Forks, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Altru Hospital. Shirley was born 8/6/1930 in Grand Forks, the daughter of John and Lillian (Zimdars) Zintel. She graduated from Central High School in 1948. She married Lynton (Derby) Emerson on 12/24/1950. She received a B.S. degree in Education from UND. Shirley was a lifelong resident of Grand Forks, other than three years when her husband was in the Army including living two years in Fairbanks, Alaska. Shirley is survived by her husband Derby; daughter and son-in-law Leigh Ann and Donald C. Hellem (of NY); daughter-in-law Mary Ann (Crouse) Emerson (of CO); grandchildren and spouses Kristin (Hellem) and Joe Hughes (of TX); Timothy and Mindy (Martin) Emerson (of CO); Nicole (Hellem) and Greg Estes (of TX); April (Emerson) and Mike Welp (of CO); and eight great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, John D. Emerson. Shirley worked various retail jobs; as a dental assistant; and after completing her degree she accepted a position teaching second grade at River Heights in East Grand Forks. Shirley actively served on several service group boards as officer, including Kappa Alpha Theta Alumni Chapter, GF Faculty Wives Assoc., and Thursday Music Club. She was a long time member of Calvary Lutheran Church and served as Funeral Coordinator, taught Sunday School and a Circle member. Shirley was a published Cross Stitch Designer and an accomplished needlework crafter and teacher. MEMORIAL SERVICES: 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 17th at Calvary Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. VISITATION: One hour prior to the service at the church. INTERMENT: Memorial Park North Cemetery, Grand Forks.