Shirley Raylene Kesson (Nee Cook)

February 17, 1934 ~ January 19, 2015 Shirley Kesson died January 19, 2015 at the Collier Hospice Center in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, having surpassed her husband of almost sixty years, Gordon James Kesson. Born on a farm outside of Gould, Oklahoma, Shirley moved to and grew up in Hemet, California. After marrying in 1955, she had her first two girls as a Navy wife in Connecticut. In 1958 she moved to Pomona, California and had her second two girls. Here she became known for her wonderful meals and her genuine enjoyment of taking care of her home and family. Shirley and Gordon moved to Colorado in 1971. In 1972, she applied for a job and was hired in the records section of the Lakewood Department of Public Safety. Over the course of forty plus years, she was one of Lakewood’s most valued and beloved employees, receiving many awards and certificates of appreciation, and was chosen for the “Peoples Choice Award” in 2008.  An adventurous spirit, Shirley loved to see the world. She also liked to read and had an avid interest in history. She visited many historical treasures across this great country, which she loved so much. She also enjoyed foreign travel, and went to Canada, Mexico and France. After a long battle with cancer, Shirley passed quietly, surrounded by family. She is survived by her husband Gordon Kesson of Arvada, Colorado, her daughters Shirlene Seager of Orange, California, April Sutton of Lincoln, Nebraska, Annette Kesson of Palm Desert, California, and Ardys Kesson of Arvada, Colorado. She also leaves behind a brother, Curtis Cook, and a sister, Deon Shaver, both residing in California. She had six grandchildren, Clair, Alberta and Halie Seager, Raini and Ryan Sutton, and Chelsey Kesson, and three great grandchildren, Hadleigh and Raymond Schmid, and Imojean Iguchi. Preceding her in death were her mother, Clay Shaver, father, Howard Shaver, and her brother, Morris Cook. Known for her caring and sweet nature, Shirley always had a song in her heart, bringing order and cheer to all. She will be missed as a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. Donations may be made to the Collier Hospice Center, 303-403-7200, 3210 Lutheran Parkway, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. A memorial to honor Shirley will be arranged by the family, date to be determined.