Shirley Dissell

Shirley Ann Dissell, 79, of Red Wing, died Friday, September 12, 2025, at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 16, 1946, in Albert Lea, Minnesota to Orlen and Mildred (Sorbo) Oakland. She graduated in 1964, from Lyle High School in Lyle, MN. She worked at the Mayo Clinic as a medical secretary in the ear, nose, and throat area for a few years before she married Robert “Bob” Dissell on February 4, 1967. They lived in Japan for two years where Bob was stationed as an M.P. in the Army during the Vietnam War. They returned to the United States and built their life together in Red Wing. Shirley worked at West Publishing, the American Red Cross, Colvill School, and was a professional typist during her working career. She was a member of First Lutheran Church, President of the Business Professional Women, and was a Girl Scout troop leader. She enjoyed baking, especially mass amounts of cookies for her grandchildren, and was known by her family for her famous pecan pie. In retirement she and Bob enjoyed road trips, going out to the western United States visiting Yellowstone National Park, their favorite, along with many small towns, campgrounds, and “mom and pop” motels across America. Shirley loved classic Hollywood, and was well versed in movies and celebrities. Shirley always looked forward to having coffee and donuts with Bob at various coffee shops and was always proud of her 100% Norwegian heritage.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband, Bob of 58 years; one daughter, Holly (Matthew) Christenson of Shoreview; two grandchildren, Tristan and Astrid Benson; two bonus grandchildren, Owen and Ethan Christenson and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Angela, son Patrick; two brothers, Ordean and Mervin Oakland and son-in-law, Abraham Benson.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in Red Wing with Reverend Quinlan Koch officiating. Burial will be at the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials are preferred to The National Brain Tumor Society at https://nbtsevents.braintumor.org/fundraiser/6573787. Arrangements are by the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel.