Shirley Ann Coyne, born May 10, 1937 in Iowa to parents Stan Kutin and Ann (Woods) Kutin, passed away peacefully April 9, 2025 in Butte, Montana. As a child Shirley loved animals and being outdoors, and many remember her stories of her adventures on her horse Princess. As a young woman, Shirley traveled to California and a year later met the love of her life, Don. They married in 1963 and their journey together eventually brought them to Montana.
One day Don said to Shirley, “Come on Shirley let’s go! We’ve got things to do!” They retired and were able to travel in their RV for 15 years. Throughout that time, so many memories were made with family and friends. She always loved being outdoors and could still horse at 80 years old.
Shirley had a rare gift: she could turn a stranger into a friend within minutes. Whether she was out at social hour or just running errands, she was always the life of the party. It wasn’t uncommon for people to make extra space for her on the dance floor-because once the music started, there was no stopping her. She was able to camp with her family and friends. Her grandchildren reminisce about camping and vacationing at the beach with her. For her 80th birthday, she was the life of the party on the beach in Florida, attracting new friends and didn’t want to get off the stage at a dance club after being given a shot on stage for her birthday. After cocktails with her sister Lois, the pair would sing “You are my sunshine” much to Don and Bob’s chagrin. One time she was given a Jell-O shot and couldn’t figure out how to take it. Once she was taught, she laughed all night about it!
Shirley was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great, great grandmother. A woman who truly lit up every room she entered. Her presence was magnetic-her laughter, her stories, and the way she danced through life, quite literally, will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Stan Kutin and Ann Woods; her loving husband, Don “Rusty” Coyne; her brother Richard “Dick”(Janice) Kutin; sister Lois Lindquist and brother-in-law Bob Lindquist; daughters Cindy Walter and Cathy Coyne; son-in-law Eudell Lusher; grandsons Josh Heinrich, Leon Lusher and Sean Shockney.
She is survived by her daughters, Linda (Mike) Shamley, Cindy Heinrich, Pam Lusher and Lori Lindquist; her grandchildren, Jennifer Heinrich, Jake Heinrich, Jessica Heinrich, Jamie (Tori) Johnson, Rossi (Jessica) Coyne, Danielle (Daniel) Gallemore, Jamie (John) Botts, Shannon (Damien) Janet, Ellyn (Tony) Civella, Steve (Christie) Shamley, and Jennifer Lusher as well as numerous great and great/great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.
She was truly one of a kind, and her memory will forever dance in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to St. Ann’s building or a charity of your choice.
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Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care for Shirley and her family.
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