AMESBURY - It is with deeply saddened hearts that we announce the death of Shirley E. Dresser, our beloved mother and grandmother, on May 4, 2024, after a long and full life. Shirley was born on June 9, 1926, to her father, Colby Getchell and mother, Harriet (Strickland) Dunn in Beverly, MA.

She spent her life living and working in Danvers, MA. She graduated from Danvers High School (class of 1944) and subsequently attended Westbrook College (now University of New England), receiving her associate's degree in medical technology, class of 1946. Shirley worked for over 25 years at what was formerly the Hunt Memorial Hospital in Danvers as supervisor of the Laboratory. Her expertise in the field supported the town's healthcare for decades. She was in the field for some forty years until her retirement when she moved to her beloved Virginia Beach, VA.

Shirley never lost her love of learning and continued to take various courses at local colleges. She also loved to travel, even going on a trip to Russia where she was delighted to see a performance of the famous Russian Ballet. Opera was another passion of hers, and she would often thrill to hear Luciano Pavarotti's crescendo when singing 'Nessun Dorma.' Most of all, Shirley's heart and soul was in giving her life to her family, to whom she was completely devoted. There are not enough words of thanks we can give her for this.

Shirley has left behind a son, Stephen J. Dresser and daughter-in-law, Christine of Virginia Beach, VA, a daughter, Kathleen A. Rimkewicz and son-in-law, Hank of Amesbury, MA, a granddaughter Meredith Hatcher and grandson-in-law, Stephen of Ruckersville, VA. Also, a grandson, Michael Rimkewicz and granddaughter-in-law, Wilnelia (Nellie) of Amesbury, MA. She was predeceased by her husband, John Dresser and beloved son, Jonathan Dresser. Many cousins, relatives, and friends fondly remember her kindnesses to them.

ARRANEGEMENTS: There will be a private graveside ceremony at Walnut Grove Cemetery Danvers, MA. A memorial luncheon will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Shirley's memory may be made to the Arbor Day Foundation, https://www.arborday.org/ . She never ceased to marvel at trees. Assisting the family with arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

Arbor Day Foundation
211 N. 12th Street, Lincoln NE 68508
Web: https://www.arborday.org/