CAMM, Shelley (nee Schlifer)

April 2, 1957 – August 10, 2020

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Shelley Camm at the Markdale Hospital, age 63 years after fighting a brave battle with cancer. Beloved Mother of Michael (Pam) and Robyn and Grandmother to Brett and Sydney, and Shannon. Beloved Sister to Sharon (Joe ) and Phyllise (Rick). Predeceased by her partner Chris Shaw (2008). A private graveside service is planned due to Covid-19. Shiva will be private.

As a child, Shelley loved to read, knit and was always highly creative. Her baking was the envy of Martha Stewart. In the 1990s she had her own cake baking company where she designed beautiful celebration cakes for birthdays and special occasions.

As an adult, Shelley became a CMA (Certified Management Accountant), and made that her career. However, on the path to her final career, she worked in a carnival! Shelley was a woman of many talents. She could ride and could drive a wagon and horses. For many years she had her beloved horse, Manitou. She learned Braille to help a blind friend.

She was always a lover of animals even as a small child. As a result, her love of dogs came naturally. As an adult, Shelley first got an Akita (hence the kennel name of Yasashiikuma) but never bred them. Then she switched to the Irish Wolfhounds (the gentle giants) and bred several litters and showed with several Specialty wins. Then she discovered the breed that became ever so special to her, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

She was dedicated to her dogs, and her breeding program for her beloved Cardigan Welsh Corgi’s. Through her Yasashiikuma kennel, she whelped hundreds of puppies over her 30+ year career. Her expertise produced countless dogs who have become Champions and Grand Champions in Canada, the USA, Great Britain, France, Germany, Japan and Luxembourg. She worked tirelessly as an ambassador for the breed and was never too busy to be a mentor to others who shared her love of dogs. She was active in many Kennel Clubs in both Canada and the US.

In the Cardigan Corgi world, Shelley was a rock star! As one of the leading experts on the breed, the demand for her puppies was enormous. She always made sure each dog went to a loving home and took great care in picking out just the right puppy for each new owner. She was never in it for the money – if you were not the right fit, you did not get one of her pups. Even as her health declined, her main concern was for her dogs. She will be meeting many of them at the Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you to the medical staff of Markdale Hospital for their excellent care of Shelley. A special thank you to all the support workers and friends who supported her in the final months. Shelley was blessed with many supportive friends over the years.

Shelley had an open heart and big smile and will sorely be missed by her family and many friends.

Arrangements entrusted to the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie. Memorial donations may be made to Corgi Aid or the charity of your choice.

There will be a Celebration of Life at 783255 County Road 9, Melancthon on Saturday, August 15th from 1-4. Water will be available but due to Covid unable to offer refreshments.