Shirley Elaine Hanlin

Shirley Elaine Rogers was the first daughter, of three, born to Katherine Reno and Cecil Rogers. She was born on August 16, 1931, in Denver Colorado. Her childhood was spent happily with family and her best friend, Janice. They were inseparable and like sisters and remained lifelong friends. The family enjoyed trips to Elitches and Lakeside, the popular amusement parks in Denver. There were many family gatherings and visits to Grandma Rogers farm. They also loved to take rides into the county and picnic. These childhood activities continued throughout Shirley's life. There were always drives and picnics which often ended at the ice cream parlor for ice cream. Her favorite being Chocolate! Everything chocolate!

In high school Shirley was active in many clubs and activities. She was well liked and popular. She attended school dances in beautiful formals that her mother sewed for her. As a junior, she was selected to be an escort for the graduating seniors. Following her artistic talents, she attended a high school art school for a bit, but never followed up with any formal training. She graduated from South high school in 1949. She learned to drive when she was out of high school. Her younger sister, Judi taught her. Shirley in the driver's seat in charge of the steering and Judi working the pedals. This strange lesson worked as Shirley passed her driving test with flying colors!

In high school she began dating Ron or Ronnie Hanlin whom she later married. This was not without a bit of scandal as they eloped and didn't tell their parents for a month! Together they built a life that lasted 44 years until Ron passed.

Shirley is the mother of five children. Rhonda Shaffer, Jeff Hanlin (deceased), Holly Hanlin(deceased), Amy Patterson and Joel Hanlin. She was also the guardian and caretaker for her sister Carole's child, Robin (Morey) Beers.  Prior to Carole's passing, Robin had been living with her mother, and grandfather, Cecil.  When Carole passed, Robin and Cecil became part of Shirley's three generational household and lived together until Cecil's passing. It was somewhat unconventional, but created a strong family unit that benefited everyone.

Shirley was a homemaker, but had various part time jobs throughout her adult life. Many of these jobs involved sewing, which was her creative passion. She even was part of a group of women who started their own "Scarf " business. It was quite profitable for all of them for many years. She used her expert sewing skills whenever she could. She designed wedding dresses, choir dresses and did alterations for local dry cleaners. All of her children wore clothes that she created. She always received compliments on her own outfits because they looked professionally tailored. Sewing was her passion, her joy and her quiet time.

She joined the Mormon (LDS) Church after her mother and younger sisters joined. The missionaries were sent by her mother and her oldest daughter invited them in. Shirley listened to the message and eventually became a member. She was highly active in the church the rest of her life. She held many leadership positions, sang in the ward choir and even helped build two meeting houses, back when members were asked to serve by participating in various aspects of the construction. She attended the temple on a regular basis and worked for many years as an ordnance worker in the Denver Temple. Her testimony of the Savior's love and sacrifice for her never wavered and she remained true to her temple covenants until her death.

Shirley had a dry sense of humor. She could be stubborn and spunky. She was a devoted wife, mother and friend. She was a devout Mormon and lived true to her beliefs. She loved taking walks and being in nature. She loved finding hidden, less traveled roads and exploring. Her desire to learn and read, drove her children to boredom when visiting historical sites or museums. She was organized and her house was always clean and tidy. She cooked delicious meals and made special treats for her loved ones. Pumpkin pie, Chex mix and yummy cookies or fudge. She was frugal and learned how to manage the household budget. She enjoyed reading, lunch with friends, church activities, hiking/walking, traveling to family, The Colorado Rockies, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, musicals, using her artistic abilities to create a beautiful home, SEWING and most of all CHOCOLATE!

Shirley passed peacefully on October 7, 2025 at the age of 94, after a long struggle with dementia. She has been blissfully unaware for the past three years. She is survived by her three remaining children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She is living her best eternity now! She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

"There is nothing wrong with me that a little chocolate won't fix!"