Shirley Stolp of Chewelah, WA, passed away unexpectedly on April 16, 2023, in Spokane, WA.
Introduction
The passing of Shirley Stolp has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community. Shirley's journey was nothing short of extraordinary, shaped by her early life in Japan and the love and support she received from her adoptive family. With a deep passion for animals, a zest for life, and a commitment to kindness, Shirley's impact on those around her was immeasurable. This article pays tribute to Shirley Stolp, recounting her life's story and the cherished memories she leaves behind.
Early Life and Adoption
Shirley Stolp was born on December 14, 1960, in Osaka, Japan. Shortly after her birth, she was placed in an orphanage. In 1963, Shirley's life took a remarkable turn when she was adopted by Haidie and Shigeko Hirai, a loving Japanese-American couple from Quincy, WA. Alongside her brother Ken, who was also adopted during the same trip, Shirley embarked on a new chapter of her life in the United States.
Childhood in Quincy, WA
The Hirai family relocated to Quincy, Washington, where Shirley spent her formative years. Growing up in a nurturing environment, she developed a strong bond with her adoptive parents and brother. Their love and support laid a solid foundation for the remarkable person Shirley would become.
Life in Chewelah
In 1969, the Hirai family moved to Chewelah, a small town in Washington state. Shirley attended Jenkins High School, where she excelled both academically and socially. It was during this time that Shirley discovered her passion for animals. She joined the local 4H club, where she nurtured her love for horses and acquired her first horse, a Shetland pony.
Shirley not only thrived academically but also actively participated in extracurricular activities. She found joy in playing sports, with volleyball being her favorite, and also showcased her musical talent as a member of the high school band.
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Love for Animals
Shirley's affection for animals was a defining aspect of her life. Her involvement in the local 4H club allowed her to cultivate her passion for horses and develop a deep understanding of animal care and husbandry. Shirley's dedication and love for animals would remain with her throughout her life, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.
Marriage and Family
After completing high school, Shirley moved to Spokane, where she began working at Cyrus O'Leary's. It was here that she met her future husband, Michael Love. The couple married in 1983 and were blessed with two daughters, Jenny and Kumiko. They briefly resided in the Seattle area before moving to Beaverton, Oregon, and eventually returning to Chewelah. Unfortunately, Shirley and Michael divorced in 1998, but their shared commitment to their daughters remained steadfast.
Dedicated Service at Valley Drug Store
In 1993, Shirley embarked on a new professional journey, joining the Valley Drug Store in Chewelah. With unwavering dedication and a genuine kindness that touched the hearts of customers, Shirley became the longest-serving employee in the store's history, with over 30 years of devoted service. The numerous heartfelt comments from customers served as a testament to Shirley's warm and caring nature.
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Marriage to Douglas Stolp
In November of 2000, Shirley found love again when she married Douglas Stolp. The couple, along with Shirley's daughters, Jenny and Kumiko, made their home on a small farm on Burnt Valley Road. This chapter marked a new beginning for Shirley, and she embraced it wholeheartedly.
Shirley's Love for Horses
As an ardent animal lover, Shirley found immense joy in the company of horses. She fulfilled her lifelong dream of owning horses, reminiscent of her early days in the 4H club. Shirley's first horse since then was named Cougar, followed by Buddy. However, her favorite horse of all was Bugs. Shirley took great pride in raising and breaking Bugs to ride, starting from when he was a 6-month-old colt.
To further indulge her passion for horses, Shirley joined the Melody Riders Saddle Club, where she became an active member and even held an officer position. The club provided her with a community of fellow horse enthusiasts who shared her love for these magnificent creatures.
Reconnection with Her Japanese Heritage
In a serendipitous turn of events, Shirley's life intersected with her Japanese roots. In late 2002, she received communication from Asahi TV in Japan, expressing interest in featuring her adoption story on a new show they were developing. Shirley eagerly embraced the opportunity and traveled to Osaka, Japan, alongside Doug.
During the show's filming, Shirley experienced a deeply moving moment when she met her maternal half-sister, Yumiko. The bond they forged in that brief meeting endured and remained strong throughout Shirley's life, connecting her to her Japanese heritage in a profound way.
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