Shirley Lois (James) Ekstrom passed from this life on December 18, 2018, in Omaha at the age of 95. She was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Lester and Fay (Stevenson) James. She worked for the U.S. Naval Avionics Facility during and after World War II. She was an accomplished pianist, homemaker and quilter and happiest with the family gathered around her. Her faith carried her through the ups and downs of life and she died peacefully. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Ralph and her son Michael. Survivors include Karen (David) Asche, their sons Rick and Tad; Mark (Jody) Ekstrom, their children, Matthew, John and Megan; Carole (Al) Gnuse; Sara (Nick) Torgusson; their daughters, Sadie, Ella and Sophie as well as many other family members and friends. Special thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Home Instead, Brookstone Village and St. Joseph Villa Hospice who cared for her the last months; and a very special thank you to RN Sam Wolcott. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Brookstone Village (4330 S. 144th Street) in Omaha, NE. Private inurnment will be at Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, Shirley requested memorials to the University of Nebraska foundation for the Ralph E. Ekstrom, Ph.D. Excellence in Teaching Award Fund; 1010 Lincoln Mall, Ste.300, Lincoln, NE 68508.
