Shirley Aarestad

Shirley J. Eisler was born at home on December 4th, 1934, to Henry and Henrietta Eisler. She enjoyed a happy childhood in Elmer City, WA alongside her two siblings, and many friends.

Shirley attended Coulee Dam High School where she participated in gymnastics, cheerleading, and spent summers as a lifeguard. She skipped a grade and graduated in 1952 and soon began her career in service and care, working for two years at the Coulee City Hospital and four years in Dr. Harrison’s office.

In 1955, Shirley married Murray L. Aarestad in Angola, Indiana. This was the start of an adventure that would take them across the country, moving thirteen times throughout Murray’s fifty year career with Morrison-Knudsen Co. Shirley became an expert at making a new place feel like home for her four children, who were all born in a different state. Following Murray’s retirement, Murray and Shirley enjoyed traveling with family. Some of their favorite trips included New Zealand, the Hawaiian Islands, and visiting many friends they made over the years.

Shirley poured her whole heart into her family and community. She volunteered at the Koelsch Grade School in the library, nurturing a future generation of readers. Shirley also volunteered at Fairmont and Capital in their copy rooms. The Idaho Historical Museum appreciated her 29 year role as volunteer coordinator of the marionette shows “Pigtails & Gold Pans”, and “Bertha Goes West”. From 1977 to 2006, she brought Idaho history to life through these marionette shows, sharing her creativity and humor with countless 3rd and 4th grade school students.

Becoming a grandmother was one of Shirley’s most cherished roles. She embraced Amelia, Sara, Brennah, and Anette with wholehearted devotion. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family. Shirley’s unwavering thoughtfulness has touched many lives over the years. Known for being an excellent letter writer she sent hundreds of birthday, anniversary, and congratulation cards to family and friends. She described her letter writing not as a hobby, but as a purpose, to ensure no one felt forgotten. Her cards were small celebrations of friendship, filled with warm wishes and often a touch of humor.

At home, Shirley was often found reading from her Bible or a non-fiction library book, working on puzzles, writing her letters to old and new friends, or working in her beautiful yard. As a deeply spiritual person her consistent faith was a steady guide from the age of sixteen to her passing. Her family would say that her life reflected a quiet, enduring commitment to finishing faithfully.

Shirley passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 4th, 2026, at the age of 91, in her daughter Sonja’s home in Eagle, Idaho. She especially appreciated those of her friends and family that came to visit her, including her 94 year old sister who made the trip from Washington to have one last sisterly chat, giggle, and hug session. The culmination of a lifetime of talking daily and loving deeply.

She is survived by her four children who know they were blessed to have had her as their mother; Monty and (Tiffany) of Athol ID, Troy and (Carol) of Manteca CA, Bradley of Boise ID, and Sonja and (Karl) of Eagle ID, her sister Zelma Springen of Moses Lake WA, and her beloved grandchildren and many extended family members. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Henrietta Eisler, her husband, Murray Aarestad, and her younger brother, Henry Jr. Eisler.

Shirley’s life was a testament to kindness, faith, and steadfast love. Her legacy lives on in the many hearts she touched, the family she nurtured, and the countless lives brightened by her care.