Shirley Norma Grace Codiroli

Shirley Norma Grace Codiroli (Larson) passed away peacefully on September 27, 2013, in Petaluma, CA. Born in San Francisco on Christmas Eve 1931, she was the daughter of Carl & Grace Larson. Upon the arrival of her younger brother, Richard Larson, her family relocated to their new home, a small ranch they built themselves, close to the historical Washoe House in Petaluma, CA. She physically worked the ranch with her family, helped feed, clean pens and care for the pigs, horses, laying hens, leghorn chickens and cows: as well as milked the cows by hand. Shirley was an active student, played both the violin and saxophone, loved attending dances, and was honored to be a Princess in the "Egg Bowl." She graduated from Petaluma High School in 1950. Shirley initially worked for Deckers Photography Studio, and then held a bookkeeping position with Petaluma Poultry Processors. During this time, she also wrote letters to a young soldier during the Korean conflict. They corresponded and dated for over three years before Shirley married Willie Codiroli in April 1953. They made their home in Cotati, CA and raised three children: David, Linda, and Chris. She was very active in Cotati School PTA, leading successful fundraisers for school field-trips with hot dog sales, earning her nickname, the "Hot-Dog Lady." She continued her support of schools, school sports and 4-H throughout the years. Shirley was the voice, behind the phone, for their family business, "Codiroli Meats." An enterprising mind and spirit, Shirley helped Willie managing Willie's schedule for butchering and custom orders for cutting the meat; she utilized her accounting skills by keeping their business ledgers, and also worked in the cooler wrapping meat. She kept things organized with her well-known "list." They ran their local business together for 30 years. Willie and Shirley were married for 50 years. He passed in 2003. Shirley moved to Petaluma in 2005 and lived in a close-knit community at PEP Housing on Wilson Street. Willie & Shirley worked hard but they were committed to enjoying life and scheduled "playtime" too. Shirley was a gracious hostess, especially known for her "High Ball". They gained life-long friends while they were camping at "The Creek" in Stoneyford. They enjoyed having get-togethers with their friends and family. Shirley was a renowned dog-lover; she saved any canine in need of a good home. She also was an avid gardener, constantly stealing slips to grow at home, and grew beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. While traveling with their trailer, Shirley continuously worked on her numerous family photo albums. At graduation, each grandchild received an album documenting their life history - they treasured them. The top priority on Shirley's bucket list was a trip to Hawaii, which she took in 2007 with her daughter, Linda, and granddaughters, Teresa and Serena: her dream came true. Three years later, Shirley acquired an adventurous chauffeur when Teresa relocated back to Petaluma, driving her all over the county running errands and visiting friends and family. Both shared a love for gardening and dogs, along with photography and event planning. She leaves behind her children, David & Lill Codiroli, Artie & Linda Casini, Chris & Pat Codiroli; grandchildren, Teresa & Don Heim, Serena Codiroli, Brad Casini, Willie Codiroli, Nick & Kim Codiroli and great-granddaughter, Skylar Codiroli; brother, Richard & Jane Larson and sister-in-law, Gin Geigle, and her beloved Terrier Tinker Bell, along with numerous loving nephews, nieces and life-long friends. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm at PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma. Family and friends are also invited to the Funeral Service, Thursday, October 3, 2013 at 10:30 am at PARENT-SORENSEN. Interment, Sebastopol Memorial Lawn. The family prefer memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.