Shirlee Marie Swenson Ward returned home on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. Shirlee was born to Vadel and Marie Swenson on December 11, 1937. She spent summers in Arbon Valley and winters in Malad. She was a graduate of Malad High.

She met and married Jess P. Ward on June 21, 1956. They set about building a life and family. Working side by side, they ranched and farmed for the next 47 years. When the last calf was sold, they bought a motorhome and took it to the open road. They enjoyed many trips with their dear friends the Potts' and the Beckstead's. They made friends everywhere they went. Jess passed away on September 6, 2002. The ensuing years were spent with Dale Robbins as her beloved companion. They shared a cup of coffee every morning and a cocktail or two every evening. She loved it when she could out fish him.

Shirlee was an avid crafter and enjoyed planning project days for friends and family. There was always a stack of books to be read. She made many quilts for her children and grandchildren, donating many to children's hospitals and the homeless. Every year she'd say, " I'm not going to plant as large a garden as last year" and every year her tomatoes were overflowing.

She is survived by 3 of her 5 children, Cheri and her husband Chip, Teri and her husband Steven, and Jesse and his wife Rhonda. She has 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Also, Shirlee is survived by her brother, Dennis, and a sister Donna. Preceding her in death are her husband Jess, her eldest daughter Bonnie Maire, her baby boy Donald LeGrand and her parents. Her family will honor her during a funeral service held on May 16, 2023.