Shirley Taus Plexman, 67 years, of Val Caron, passed away on June 29, 2017 at Toronto General Hospital from complications suffered as a result of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Shirley was born in Sudbury on July 12, 1949 to Therese and André Rivest. She married Tom Plexman on May 20, 1995 in Sudbury. Shirley’s major career accomplishments began with WSIB where she worked for over 15 years. She was always an entrepreneur at heart, owning and managing her own women’s clothing store, we all know how much Shirley loved clothes. She started a successful partnership, RDMS, a disability management company, for over 10 years. Shirley received awards for women entrepreneurship, she was a solid leader and contributor in her community. She sat on numerous Boards dedicating her time and personal resources to help others. Always giving was Shirley’s nature. A woman of strong values, strong convictions and a big heart. Shirley had a special gift when it came to making crafts, it was a huge passion of hers. She spent countless hours making crafts for friends and family. Without a doubt, Shirley’s most favourite time of the year was Christmas when a plethora of snowmen adorned the house or as Tom would say “The snowmen are moving in for the winter!”. Shirley was always happiest when surrounded by her family and close friends. The love she had for her sons was immeasurable, they were her world. Shirley’s home was the gathering place for many celebrations that will be remembered by everyone. Shirley was a friend to many, always putting their needs first. Shirley is preceded in death by her dad André Rivest and is survived by her eldest son Timothy (Connie) Taus, Todd (Amy) Taus, step sons Jay (Taude) Plexman and Jeff (Heather) Plexman, surrogate daughter Renee (Greg), as well as her brother Ronny (Maureen) Caverly and mother Therese Rivest. Shirley will be sadly missed by her nieces Kelly and Kara and all of her grandchildren Taylor, Zachary, Mya, Macy, Pria, Dax, Matthew, Benjamin, Kaytlin, Josh, Nathan and Paige. She was also survived by her sister in laws, Barb, Marg & Dona. The family would like to thank everyone who made the trip to Toronto to spend time with Shirley. Those who were close to her would know how hard Shirley fought. Her courage and strength is an inspiration to everyone. The family asks if you knew Shirley you would know that she would want you to raise your glass, no matter where you are, and celebrate life. Your fight is over mom, may we meet again. We all love you so much. As per Shirley’s wishes, there will be no service and no visitation.
Shocked to hear of Shirley’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember her laughter at the WSIB; it bubbled over to all, leaving smiles behind. She was always smiling no matter the situation. She was an inspiration to women and indeed a woman with a mission. Part of that mission was to leave a little of herself with everyone she knew.
July 11, 2017
So sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing, our sincere condolances to the Plexman family.
July 10, 2017
We wish to convey our sincere condolences to the Taus Plexman family for the passing of Shirley. Sorry for your loss.
July 4, 2017
I knew Shirley as a very strong and proud woman. We knew that she lived with pain, yet she rarely every complained about it. She was a fighter, and was not afraid to take on any of life’s challenges. She always worked hard and had strong ethics.
She always spoke of her family with love. My condolences to them.
Her periodic trips into town for lunch, and our catch ups shall be missed.
Sandra
July 4, 2017
Tim , Todd , and Family . My sincerest condolences on the passing of your mom . May she rest in peace .
July 4, 2017
To Tim and family I extend my condolences to you at this difficult time. I knew Shirley from the WSIB in a work relationship but she had the gift of making it feel more of a personal relationship. I like many others at the WSIB felt her compassion and understanding. I experienced her compassion and tenderness first hand at a time when she was my manager. Rest in peace sweet lady.
July 3, 2017
Tim, immediate and extended families – saddened to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was a true force of nature – kind/helpful/knowledgeable/skilled at crafts … and most can attest, the list is never ending. She definitely had a joy of life. I worked many years with her at WSIB – I can still hear her laughter, quite contagious. When she moved up the ladder, she was always available to help or just lend an ear and this did not end when she expanded her horizons outside of WSIB. She made you want to be better. She will be missed – my sympathies to all feeling her loss.
July 2, 2017
I remember Mr and Mrs Rivest growing up. I do remember Shirley as a very kind person to me in my youth with my Aunt Moreen and my Uncle Ron who would take me around to visit with Family and Friends which I very much enjoyed the inclusion.
Celebration of Life is never left without LIGHT
July 2, 2017
Shocked to hear of Shirley’s passing! She was a remarkable person and a great friend. I sat on many Boards with her and she was very passionate about her community. She poured everything she had in everything she did. Condolences to Tom and her family. RIP my friend!!!
July 2, 2017
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family at this time.
July 2, 2017
To Shirley’s family and extended family, we are so sorry for your loss of this beautiful woman and wonderful human being. I knew Shirley in school, we attended each others’ weddings 50 yrs ago and were friends when her sons were babies. We recently reconnected on social media. The world has lost a very bright light and yes we will raise a glass for Shirley and for life. You are all in our thoughts. Louise & Peter Foucault, Chatham, Ontario
July 2, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss Tim. As we had discussed Shirley was my first manager at the WSIB. She was so much more to me and helped me through difficult times. She was my mentor and friend. I have many great memories of her! I know that with time, tears of grief will become tears of laughter when your own memories of the crazy happy times are recalled. Take care of each other.
July 2, 2017
I’m so sorry for your loss, I can’t imagine how difficult this must be. This is a beautiful tribute to her life. Reading it I can feel the love and pride you feel for her. Thinking of you guys.
July 2, 2017