Shirlee Jane Rost

Shirlee Jane Rost, born on November 5, 1953, in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota, peacefully passed away on January 10, 2024, at Alomere Health in Alexandria.   She was a dedicated wife, a loving mother, grandmother and soon to be great grandmother.

Shirlee graduated from Jefferson High School in Alexandria in 1972. Shortly after, she married her high school sweetheart, David Rost, on May 27, 1972, at the Church of St. Mary in Alexandria. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Ginger, who brought immense joy and fulfillment to their lives.

Shirlee spent the majority of her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the healthcare industry. For over two decades, she dedicated herself to caring for others at the Douglas County Hospital. Her compassion, skills, and dedication touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues.

Retirement beckoned in 2010 as Shirlee began facing health challenges attributed to her back issues. Despite these obstacles, she never lost her fighting spirit. In 2017, she emerged triumphant, defeating Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Large B cell, proving her resilience and inspiring those around her.

Reflecting on her life, Shirlee found solace and happiness in her many passions. She had a genuine love for dogs, which was evident to all who knew her. She enjoyed spending time at their seasonal camper near Lake Amelia, where she reveled in the serenity of nature. Adventures to Custer State Park and Medora were cherished memories, as were the exhilarating rides on her beloved Harley Davidson. Shirlee's creativity knew no bounds as she delved into various crafts, specializing in embroidery and beaded Native American jewelry.  She had a green thumb and nurtured her flower garden and herb collection, always striving to grow the biggest tomatoes possible. Sailing, bowling, and cooking brought her joy, and she delighted in preparing hearty stews and soups for her loved ones.

Beyond her career as an LPN, Shirlee became a skilled nurse herbalist, empowering others through the healing properties of herbs. She passionately used natural remedies to alleviate ailments and promote wellness, further expressing her deep care for others.

Shirlee will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her husband David Rost, their daughter Ginger Thoennes-Rost, and her granddaughters, Katelyn (Daryn) Kirscht and Danielle Foster. She was a caring sister to Todd (Wen) Thoennes, Judy Rost, Annette (Terry) Pavek, and Mary (Bill) Elliot. Also survived by her many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Charles Thoennes.

A Celebration of Shirlee’s life will take place on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 1:30 PM at the Roy-Hetland Funeral Home in Osakis, MN. 

A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be at Gordan Pleasant Hill Cemetery near Osakis, MN in the Spring.

Shirlee's memory will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to inspire us. May she rest in eternal peace.