David Matthew Shirley

David Matthew Shirley, of Duluth, MN, was born on July 31, 1963, at St. Mary’s Hospital. He was the fifth of six children in a household filled with love and laughter. From the age of five, David was drawn to the sounds of the AM radio—he could name a song’s title, artist, and year of release just by hearing the first few notes. Music remained a lifelong passion.

Around that same time, David’s father brought home the family’s first dog, sparking a lifelong bond with animals—especially dogs. Whether they belonged to him, his neighbors, or complete strangers, dogs naturally gravitated toward David. He never met one that didn’t love him.

David had a heart as big as his smile. He was generous to a fault. If you needed help, he was there for you. Of course, you needed to keep in mind that he ran on “David Time” and could easily be distracted en route.

He began his education at Congdon Park, where he formed childhood friendships that would last over 50 years. He later attended Holy Rosary School, where he and his close-knit group of friends left a memorable impression on the Dominican Sisters. David went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Management from the College of St. Scholastica in 1990.

His deep compassion and commitment to others led him to a 30-year career supporting those in need. He worked at the Human Development Center, Arrowhead House, Birch Tree Crisis Stabilization Unit, and Essentia Health—touching countless lives with his kindness and care.

David had many interests—fishing, playing cribbage, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, cooking, bonfires, feeding crows and deer, walking the dogs, stargazing, and marveling at the Northern Lights. He especially loved playing pranks on unsuspecting friends and family, always with a sparkle in his eye.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Raymond and Charlotte Shirley. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa LeFaive, and grandchildren, Gemma and Jonah. Also surviving him are his siblings: Mike (Abby) Shirley, Jean (Mark) Serre, Ann Shirley (John Stattelman), Patty (Bernie) Wenzel, and John (Shelly) Shirley; as well as Mary Shirley, Kyle, and Typhany Bergstrom. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, friends and his faithful dog and constant companion, Lucky.

David and his family are grateful for the compassionate care he received at the University of Minnesota, especially from Dr. Thenappan.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Dougherty Funeral Home.

Additional visitation will begin at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association: 1121 14th St. NW, Suite 150, Washington, D.C. 20005 or online at www.PHAssociation.org

When you see the Northern Lights, think of Dave—and smile.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 218-727-3555. Please visit www.dfhduluth.com to sign the online guestbook.