Announcement from the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Board
Shirley and Rob with Kiki (photo contributed)
Media Release
It is with deep sadness that the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Society Board of Directors shares the passing of Shirley Mainprize, co-founder & President, of the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Society, on Monday, March 3rd, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. Robert Miller, co-founder of the Donkey Refuge & Shirley’s husband, will now be guiding the Refuge as Board President, stepping in from his previous position as Vice President.
A special tribute to Shirley—her life, her work, and her vision for the future of the Refuge—will be featured in an upcoming newsletter dedicated to her unwavering commitment to the donkeys in her care. In addition, a celebration of her life and legacy will take place at the Refuge this summer, following consultation with her family.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Shirley’s husband Rob, her son Kris & daughter Shannon, and Shirley’s extended family at this time.
At this time, the Board also wishes to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Donkey Refuge, who have gone above and beyond in caring for the donkeys & mules, maintaining the farm, and ensuring the smooth operation of the charity during this challenging time. Their dedication is deeply appreciated.
Continuing Shirley’s legacy, longtime friend, advisor, and supporter of the Donkey Refuge Leanne Rutley will join the Board until the next Annual General Meeting. Her guidance and support will be invaluable in the months ahead, and the Board looks forward to working closely with Leanne to ensure the continued operation of the Refuge.
Located near Chase, and co-founded by Rob Miller & Shirley Mainprize in 2011 as a registered charity, the Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge provides a safe, secure, & permanent home for over 100 neglected, abused or unwanted Donkeys & Mules. The property is owned by the Donkey Refuge, and welcomes visitors to see the donkeys and learn about equine rescue & care during the summer. The Board of Directors wants to let the community know that despite the loss of Shirley, we will be open for visits this summer starting May 2 until September 7, 2025; the Refuge will open its gate on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 10:30am – 3:30pm as usual.
For those wishing to honor Shirley’s memory and help continue her important work, donations to the Donkey Refuge in her honour would be greatly appreciated.
Donations for the Donkeys can be made online at turtlevalleydonkeyrefuge.com/donate or call 250-679-2778. All donations will receive a tax receipt.
