Shirley J. Larkin, Minnesota studio founder, dies
August 11th, 2011
Shirley J. Larkin, owner and founder of Larkin Dance Studio in Maplewood, Minnesota, died Wednesday morning, August 10, surrounded by her family, according to the studio.
Larkin had been teaching dance for more than 60 years. Certified by the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, she served as president and secretary of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of Dance and Affiliated Artists from 1962 until 1970, and was National President Emeritus of the Professional Dance Teachers Association.
In 1950 she founded Larkin Dance Studio, where two of her daughters, Michele Larkin-Wagner and Molly Larkin-Symanietz, are on the faculty. In addition to her studio work, Larkin choreographed many musicals, taught dance workshops, and judged numerous dance competitions.
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I have so many memories of Shirley and started dancing in her basement in Mahtomedi in the early 1960′s. She was a wonderful woman and she will be missed. My thoughts are with all of you as you celebrate her life. She was an outstanding asset to this community.
To the family I send my best!!!
I was at Redeeming Love Church on Sunday, August 21, when I saw the expression of sympathy on the passing of Shirley Larkin. I took dance many years ago from Shirley and I remember what a wonderful teacher and person she was. She really cared for her students and encouraged even us adults to strive to be the best. She truly left a legacy in dance that will be remembered. I sure that heaven is rejoicing at her coming home.