Shirley Mardell "Tootie" Gerdes, 82Ormsby09/28/2017Shirley Mardell "Tootie" Gerdes, age 82, of Ormsby, Minnesota died on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Health System in St. James. Shirley was born on April 22nd, 1935, in Madelia, MN, the daughter of Fern (Ogden) and Dale Kelsey.  She passed away following a 15 month battle with cancer. During that time her motto was, "Let the cares of tomorrow wait til this day is done."Shirley was a loving, caring and giving person.  She was a compassionate nurse for over 50 years.  Shirley had many talents including cooking, baking pies, quilting, sewing, drawing, and having long conversations. She was also talented at woodworking, an activity she loved.Shirley married Harry Gerdes in February 1958 in Iowa. They raised four children who will treasure their memories of her always. She loved all her children, 12 grandchildren and great grandchild dearly.Shirley is survived by her husband Harry Gerdes of Ormsby, children; Dr. Jeffrey (Dr. Terri) Gerdes of Sartell, John Gerdes of Ormsby, Dr. James (Stephanie) Gerdes of Lake Park, Jean (Jonathan Bentz) Gerdes of Truman, 12 grandchildren; Harrison, Hannah, Rachel, Greta, Jordan, Ashley, Erin, Benjamin, Caitlin, Bowdin, Effie, Maisie, 1 great-grandson Tobias, 8 brothers and sisters; Maxine (Paul), Dale (Judy), Marjorie (David), Carol (Don), Ronald (Jean), Charlotte (Jerold), Malcolm (Karen) and Valeria (Gary). She is preceded in death by her parents and a sister Donna Jean.Funeral services will be 10am, Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at Waverly Lutheran Church, rural Trimont, with Rev. Anthony Christoffels officiating.Burial will follow at the church cemetery.Visitation will be Monday at Sturm Funeral Home in St. James from 6-8pm and at the church one hour before services on Tuesday.You may send the family condolences online at www.sturmfh.comArrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in St. James.