Obituary of Shirley A. Atwater

June 18, 2021, Shirley Atwater reached up and took the hand that she saw reaching down for her and went home with her heavenly father. November 16, 1935, Clifford and Dova Wilson were blessed with their firstborn, a daughter, they named her Shirley Ann. She was born in Strasburg, Colorado. As she was growing up, the family moved quite a bit, providing her with a wealth of experiences. Her brother Jim arrived 16 years later. Soon after that, she met and married her first husband, Floyd Gresham. To this union two daughters were born, Nila Jo and Deborah Ann. Floyd tragically passed away, in an "on the job" automobile accident in 1956. The "end of the watch" came for him, after only one month in his State Trooper's career. The young widow and mother of two, met Marvin Leroy Atwater at a New Year's Eve party in Bennett. Destined to be together, they married a month later, February, 1957, in Raton, New Mexico. There was much celebration in January, 1958, when their son, Lynn Leroy was born. She was dedicated to her family and family farm. She was proud to be a farm wife, and embraced and dispatched well, the multiple duties that vocation demanded. It was evident that she was proficient at her gardening and quilting. Her creative side was satisfied with these endeavors. She lovingly pieced together quilts for all her grand kids. To the delight of her grand kids, visits with Grandma always included kittens to cuddle, eggs to be gathered, and a garden to walk, full of delightful colors and sweet smells. The couple was fortunate to have 44 years together, they worked side by side, for success of their family farm. They really enjoyed getting away for day drives, taking the roads less traveled, and when the farm schedule allowed, they enjoyed longer trips. They would travel to ride on the narrow gauge rail lines, and appreciated the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. Their fondest travel memory, was a farm tour, "across the pond", to explore James Harriot's country. Even after her second husband, Marvin, passed away, in 2001, her commitment to the family farm continued. She spent the duration of her time supporting her grandson, Layne, in his farming efforts. Her steadfastness to these pursuits, spanned over 64 years She would be happy to know that her friends remember her as trustworthy, honest and sincere. We remember her a Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Sister, Aunt and friend. Our good Lord gave Shirley Ann Wilson Gresham Atwater, 85 contented years here with her family and friends. She was grateful that she got to remain in the place that she made into a home, until the very end, when a health emergency took her to the hospital. Family gathered around her hospital bed, and recited in unison, the 23rd Psalm, to which she replied, "thank you" and soon after, left for her heavenly home. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Cliff and Dova, her two husbands, Floyd and Marvin, her daughter Nila Jo, and great, great grandson Myles Devin Skatzka. She is survived by her brother Jim Wilson and wife, Rhenda, daughter, Debbie Middlemist and husband Greg, son, Lynn Atwater and wife Debbie, grandchildren, Casey Woodis, Carey (Dennis) Skatzka, Teri Breon (Ken), Darcy Middlemist (Joe), Chance Middlemist (Ceri), Layne Atwater (Kandi), Kyle Atwater (September). Numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and cousins. Memorial contributions can be made to: Bennett-Watkins Fire and Rescue, 35 4th Street, Bennett, Co 80102. 303-644-3572