Lewis, Shirley Podas, RN Shirley Podas Lewis, R.N., U of MN nursing graduate, traveler and communicator extraordinaire, passed away at home August 13, 2015 at age 95. Her life-long life passion for connecting people, and her legendary skill for eliciting anyone's entire life history, touched many lives and brought countless people together. Her 4 children, 2 grandchildren, their spouses, and 3 great grandchildren, invite her community to celebrate her life at a future memorial service this autumn. Born in a south Minneapolis family tracing its origins throughout Scandinavian Saami territory, Shirley's large extended family across the US fostered her love of travel. She pursued music as a violinist and alto soloist, and cited communication as her major focus in life. During WWII Shirley practiced industrial nursing and joined the Minnesota Nurses Guard. She married U of M medical student Charles Lewis, later a family physician, in Henning, MN, where Shirley was a leader in community activities. When Charles suffered a stroke at 60, Shirley set their course to a busy and inspiring life of community involvement in Cape Coral FL for 30 years, advocating for him as a role model for overcoming challenges. The summer travels Shirley organized for them included 67 Elderhostels and other trips across North America, extending into the wilderness of northern Canada, as well as participation at the national level in Charles's military community and the Lindbergh Foundation. They celebrated 50th, 60th, and 70th anniversaries in Minneapolis, most recently living at Augustana Apartments where Charles passed away July 26 at age 95. Memorials suggested to the University of Minnesota School of Nursing Foundation or Minnehaha Communion Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.