Obituary of Priscilla Barbara Strand Shipley

Mom passed away at the beautiful age of 91 in her home, with her family, right where she always wanted to be, on July 29, 2024 ~ Dad’s birthday.

Born one of five children in Gary, Indiana on November 22, 1932. She was a wonderful Thanksgiving gift to Mary and John Zapel. She spent much of her youth and young adulthood in Chicago, Illinois and told us kids many stories of her first job working for Ma Bell as a telephone operator. That’s when she met and married Don Strand.

Priscilla’s service career really began when she began her job at the Blackhawk Restaurant after starting her family and shortly before divorce. Soon after she met the love of her life, Ralph Shipley who was working at the carnival at the Riverview Park in Chicago. 

With five girls in tow they headed north to raise the children on Perch Lake in Baxter, Minnesota where one more girl was born. What adventures we had! Mom served in nearly, literally every restaurant, bar, club, the golf course club house, etc. that there was in the Brainerd/Baxter area. 

In her retirement years she had a position as a Volunteer Grandmother at Lowell School and continued working for an additional eighteen years. She loved working with the kids. 

We love you dearly mom and will miss your strength and support. Give dad a big hug from all of us. Your daughters: Susan Darlene (Ladysmith, WI), Donna Joy (Port Something, FL), Cheryl Lynn (Brainerd, MN), Jacqulene Dee (Deceased), Pearl Marion (Brainerd, MN), Robin Melody (Brainerd, MN), as well as a slew of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and very special people who loved her. Mom’s immediate family had all passed on before her; parents, brother and sisters. 

Mom was adamant about not having a funeral but we are planning a day to remember this vibrant lady. Any memorials can be sent to: Wings Bank, c/o P. Shipley Memorial Fund, 524 S. 6th St., Brainerd, MN 56401