Cheerful to the end, Shirley passed away August 5, 2005 from High Grade Lymphoma. She was born in Auburn, Washington on June 5, 1921 to Arthur and Blanche Rasmussen. A direct descendant of Jacob Maple, the Original King County Settler of June 22, 1851, was also a member of the Daughters of the Pioneers. She lived in Seattle the majority of her life and loved the typical rainy northwest weather. Her pioneering strength and spirit helped her through life's difficulties, as well as giving her the lust for life, laughter and song. Her creativity shone through in everything she pursued. A daughter, sister, cousin, wife, mother and friend to all, she was well loved. Finally free of pain, she has gone to join her beloved son, Daniel Shaw, her parents and her husband Jack Balcom. Shirley is survived by her daughter Kathleen Shaw, her brother & wife, Wayne (Jean) Rasmussen and her two stepsons� Dennis (Melissa) Balcom, and Jerry (Kathie) Balcom, her grandchildren Phillip, Duncan, Sarah, Rebekah, Ilsa and Ian and her boyfriend John Hamilton. A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, August 25, from 4-7 p.m. at the West Seattle Eagles, 4426 California Ave. S.W., Seattle, WA. Remembrances can be made in her name to your favorite charity or just plant your favorite flowers in a place that you can enjoy for many years to come.