Shirley Marilyn Skinner, 84, of Austin, passed away Sunday, May 1, 2011, at Samartian Bethany Heights in Rochester.

Shirley was born July 28, 1926, in Austin to Harold and Mary Ellen Harlan. She attended school in Austin, graduating from St. Augustine High School with the class of 1944. Shirley was employed at Hormel after high school. On June 28, 1947 she joined William “Bill” Skinner in marriage. Together they raised six children, Beth, Mark, Matt, Mary Ellen, Sarah and Nora.

Before retiring, Shirley worked as a teacher’s aide and was successful as a real estate agent. She loved a good book, and enjoyed Bridge, crossword puzzles and any exercise to keep her mind sharp. Shirley was known for her antiquing and bargain hunting skills. She expressed genuine interest in everyone she met and never lost her positive outlook toward life. Her dedication to family and lifelong friendships is to be admired.

Survivors include her six children, Beth Bodensteiner (David Nelson), Austin, Mark Skinner, Shakopee, Matt Skinner (Susan), Rochester, Mary Ellen Grega (John), Black Hawk, SD, Sarah Carlson (Scott), Maple Grove, Nora Jude (Tom), Grove City, OH; ten grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bill on June 9, 2010; parents; brothers, Richard and Nate.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 7, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 4 pm CCW rosary on Friday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4-7 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation to the staff of Samaritan Bethany Heights for the respect and care given to Shirley. Also many thanks to Bonnie at Samaritan for the friendship she extended to Shirley and our family.

Memorials may be made to the Communications Center through the State Services for the Blind or Samaritan Bethany Heights.