Harold Lee "Wig" Shakespeare

Harold Lee (Wig) Shakespeare was born May 18, 1925 in Central City, Iowa. He often spoke of the time he would see his family and friends again. He wondered what Heaven would be like and decided to go find out from home on Friday, January 17, 2014.

Why is he known as Wig you may wonder? Well, when he was 4 years old, his Grandma Shakespeare would read his favorite bedtime story, “Uncle Wiggily” each evening. She then coined the nickname “Wiggily.”

Wig lived happily and loved deeply for 88 years. He leaves behind his wife, Dolores (Dee); four children; Daniel, Timothy, Nancy and Sandi and six stepchildren; Daniel, Debbie, Deborah, David, Daniel and John. He was grand and great-grandfather to many children. He also dearly loved his constant companion, his Great Pyrenees, Sugar.

Wig was proud to be a World War II Navy veteran. He was an electrician and demagnetized ships coming through the San Francisco harbor. Later, he was active in his local Lions Club. He was a long time resident of Fairfax, Iowa where he served his community as a councilman and mayor for 18 years. He owned and operated Wig’s Water Works there for many years. He was a member of the Unity Center of Cedar Rapids, Iowa where he met his “sweetheart,” Dee, on New Year’s Eve, 1997. They were married the following April 26, 1998.

Wig was as a man who always tried to do the right thing. When his wife of 45 years, came into her final illness, he lovingly cared for her alone in their home. When people would trespass against him, he quickly forgave them and moved on. He was known for his bright blue eyes and quick wit. He always offered a warm, strong hug, and big smile to everyone he met. We cannot capture the life of one who did so much for so many in a few paragraphs. But those who knew him well think he would want to be remembered for his ability to demonstrate unconditional love and acceptance. Even as he was weakened by congestive heart failure, he gifted others with an amazing spirit of love.

Let all who read this, remember Wig’s powerful example. Honor him by forgiving others of their trespasses and gifting love and acceptance to everyone you meet. Wig lived the adage that love in action will bring peace on Earth. This is his legacy.

Friends may visit at noon, Wednesday, January 22nd at Sonny’s Real Pit, 5328 New Jesup Hwy, Brunswick, Georgia 31525. Lunch will be on your own. Service will follow. Please visit this website to send a message to our family: http://shar.es/UuPw5

Wig is preceded by his parents, Andrew Leroy and Francis Ellen Shakespeare; brother, Lyle Shakespeare; and wife, Theresa Shakespeare. Wig’s family is deeply appreciative of the loving care and attention provided by Heartland Hospice of Brunswick, Georgia.