Shirley Ann Meland, 75

Shirley Ann Meland, 75, went to be with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sept. 22, 2016. Her dedication to her family and firm belief in God sustained her throughout her life.

Shirley was blessed with a large and loving family. She married her high school sweetheart, Quint, on June 24, 1961. Together they celebrated 55 years of marriage and raised three children, Deborah, Kimberly and Michael. Shirley was a loving and devoted grandmother to seven beautiful grandchildren, Taylor, Madison, Jordan, Ally, Max, Zachary, and Mac-kenzie.

Born in San Diego, Calif., Shirley moved to Carlsbad and graduated from Carlsbad High School. She then attended Oceanside Carlsbad Junior College where she earned an associate of arts degree. Upon moving to Santa Cruz, Calif., she and her husband owned Quinten R. Meland Insurance, which was established in 1971. She worked there until her retirement in 2001.

Shirley was a kind and gentle soul. She listened to people and always put the needs of others before her own. She possessed a beautiful smile and a sense of humor that would leave one laughing. Throughout her life, she maintained a selfless demeanor. Her gift of love will never be forgotten.

Above all, Shirley was devoted to God. She was a woman of strong faith, believing in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love. She believed in life eternal with Christ.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, beginning at 1:30 p.m.at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 801 High St., Santa Cruz, Calif.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Shirley’s name to Hospice of Santa Cruz County and/or the American Cancer Society.