Shirley Fiala

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Obituary

Shirley Fiala, 103, of Denver, CO, formerly of Mt. Vernon, SD, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2025, in Denver, CO. Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, March 15, at Amazing Grace Free Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon. Visitation will be Friday March 14, from 5-7:00 PM, at Bittner Funeral Chapel with a 6:30 prayer service. Burial will be in Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Mt. Vernon.

Celebrating the Remarkable Life of Shirley

On the evening of February 22, 2025, Shirley Fiala passed away peacefully at the Denver Hospice Inpatient Care Center in Denver, CO surrounded and loved by her family. Shirley was 103 years old.

On a crisp autumn day, November 16, 1921, the world was blessed with the arrival of Shirley, born to LJay and Mabel Baker on the family farm west of Mount Vernon. From an early age, she embraced life with kindness, resilience, and a deep love for her community. She attended Furland School and graduated from Mt. Vernon High School in 1939, eager to make her mark on the world.

After graduation, she sowed the seeds of her career in the office of Mitchell Methodist Hospital before turning the page to a new chapter in 1941 with Emil Fiala. Together, they tilled the land near Mount Vernon, cultivating not just crops, but a life full of promise. In 1945, their hearts reaped the greatest harvest of all—they adopted a tiny baby girl and named her Helen Elaine, filling their lives with love and boundless joy.

Shirley had an incredible work ethic and a heart for service. She worked for Lou Scott and Laverne Halverson’s Grocery and Locker Store before taking on a 25-year career with the Davison County Agriculture Stabilization Conservation Service (ASCS). She finally retired in 1984—but not from life!

Her passions were as abundant as her generosity. She found joy in gardening, listening to birds sing their morning songs, canning, and making baby quilts that wrapped generations of little ones in love. Camping, flowers, and her deep devotion to the Methodist Church brought her great happiness.

Shirley was a true leader, dedicating herself to 4-H for 25 years. She became State 4-H Vice President in 1948 and proudly served as State 4-H President in 1949. In 1959, she took on the role of State Chaperone, guiding and inspiring young boys and girls while teaching valuable home-ec skills that many carried with them for life.

Her love for her community was unwavering. As a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary, she held various leadership roles and was instrumental in planning Mount Vernon’s Centennial celebration. She and Emil were honored as Mr. & Mrs. Mt. Vernon, a testament to their dedication to their town.

One of her proudest moments was being commemorated to the Arch of Fame, a recognition that honored her lifetime of service and dedication. She was equally thrilled to be part of the Centennial parade, celebrating the town she held so dear with the people she loved.

Shirely also worked tirelessly with the cemetery committee, updating records, planting trees, and helping establish the beautiful Avenue of Flags. She and Emil were devoted Sunday School and MYF leaders, ensuring that every child had the opportunity to attend Bible School and Bible Camp, often going out of their way to make sure they got there.

But life wasn’t just about work—it was about adventure, too! Two of the most exciting and memorable trips of Shirley’s life were taking a breathtaking cruise to Alaska with her dear friend Helen Trone and traveling to New York to visit friends who had become like family. These journeys filled her with joy, laughter, and cherished memories.

Her greatest legacy, however, was her family. Shirley lived an incredible 103 years, witnessing generations grow before her eyes. She was blessed with 11 grand, great-grand, and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.

Shirley’s life was a shining example of love, faith, and selfless service. She touched countless lives with her warmth and generosity. Her legacy will continue through the family she adored, the community she uplifted, and the many hearts she inspired. A life well-lived, a heart well-loved, and a spirit that will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her daughter, Helen Norris; grandchildren, Lisa (Mike) Sacker, Brad (Jennifer) Kelsey, and Canyon Norris; great-grandchildren, Kai (Taylor) Klose, Bryce (Hannah) Klose, Ryan Sacker, Briana Sacker, and Morgan Kelsey; and her great-great-grandchildren, Benjamin Klose, Landon Klose, Finley Klose, and Arlo Klose.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, LJay and Mabel Baker, her husband, Emil Fiala, and her brother, Donald Baker.

Shirley’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the wonderful individuals who visited, picked up groceries, did chores, shoveled snow, brought food, and made it possible for Shirley to remain in her beloved home nearly until the end. It was a place she truly cherished, and your kindness and generosity allowed her to continue living where her heart was happiest. Your love and support meant the world to her and to all who loved her.

The family is asking in lieu of flowers that any remembrance donations in Shirley’s name be made to: Heifer Project, South Dakota American Legion Auxiliary, or The Veteran Association.

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