Shirley Van Krevelen, 88

Shirley J. Van Krevelen, 88 of Kalispell, passed away Sunday May 12, 2024, at the Hamilton Assisted Living Community. She was born March 26, 1936 in Marengo, Wisconsin the daughter of the late Matthew and Eleanor Honkanen.

Shirley was raised in Marengo, and after completing high school, moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota to attend the University of Minnesota. There she completed a bachelor's degree in education and played the French horn in the University of Minnesota marching band. While living in Minneapolis, Shirley also met and married Dr. Richard Van Krevelen.

In 1965, she moved to Montana with her husband and began her teaching career. She taught initially in Whitefish but spent most of her career at Bigfork Elementary School in Bigfork. Shirley and Richard also spent one year living abroad in Melbourne, Australia. During her time there she supported her husband as he helped develop the national infrastructure for chiropractic care. After returning from abroad, Shirley settled into what would become a 40-year career teaching second grade elementary school. 

Beyond her prolific career, Shirley enjoyed many extracurricular activities. She was active in her church and played the French horn as part of the Christian Center Church orchestra. She played first-base on a local softball team and was a competitive recreational tennis player. She enjoyed good food and would never turn down a caramel latte and good conversation with her many friends. 

She is survived by her son, Steve Van Krevelen; and daughter-in-law, Liz of Whitefish; her brother, Donald of Ogden, Utah; niece, Melissa and nephew, Jon.

Visitation and a celebration of life service will be held Sunday, May 19 at the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton. Visitation will be from noon - 2 p.m. with services beginning at 2 p.m. and Mr. Brooks Baer will officiate the services. A reception will follow the services and will also be held at Daly-Leach Chapel. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.