Shirley Jean Velthoen passed away peacefully on March 20, 2016 in Modesto at the age of 87. Shirley was born on August 18, 1928 to Harold and Ruby Thomas in Escalon, CA. Shirley was a resident of Escalon for 50 years until moving to Stanislaus County. Shirley worked for a number of years at Bengston’s in Escalon. She enjoyed gardening and was a member of several local garden clubs. Shirley loved traveling and spending time outdoors in nature and was an avid animal lover. Her greatest joy was spending time with her daughters. She was a wonderful and loving mother who will be forever missed.
Shirley leaves behind her three daughters, Pamela Nissen, Valorie Vesia Glor and Jennifer Whetstone (Dan). Shirley also leaves behind her grandchild, Lars Nissen (Karen) and great grandson, Tyler Hill, along with her sibling, Harold A. Thomas Jr. (Nancy) and their children, Kraig and Kris Thomas and her sisters-in-law, Patricia Jerome, Yolanda Vesia, Lorraine Rose and Penny Cox (Ron) along with many Vesia nieces and nephews. Shirley is preceded in death by her brother, Wesley M. Thomas and her two sons-in-law, Jim Nissen and Don Glor.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Deegan Funeral Chapel. A private family service was held. Please consider donations in Shirley’s name to Community Hospice or Oakdale Shelter Pet Alliance, PO Box 1965, Oakdale, CA 95361.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times
March 30, 2016