Shirley was a strong, caring, and generous woman who lived a long life shaped by resilience, devotion and laughter. Born during the Depression and the youngest of four, she supported her husband Bob through his military service in WWII and the Korean War and raised her family with unwavering dedication. She met the many changes of her lifetime with grace.
Her heritage was Norwegian on her mother’s side and Swedish on her father’s side, and she was deeply proud of her Scandinavian background. Her holiday baking often included traditional Scandinavian treats, and one of her most memorable trips was her visit to Norway, where she met cousins she spoke of often and fondly.
She raised seven children, managing the household with resourcefulness and care through both abundant and lean years. The foundation she built became the foundation for all her children and grandchildren.
Shirley enjoyed baking and cooking, and was known for her peanut brittle, banana bread, and apple pie. She made friends easily and kept these cherished friendships throughout her life. She loved to dance, play cards, dress up for Halloween and socialize.
Shirley loved the adventure of traveling, visiting Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, Africa, Mexico, Maui, Canada, Norway, Sweden, South Korea, Jamaica, and St. Lucia. One of her favorite adventures was her trip to Jamaica with her three daughters — taken in her early 90s — a testament to her spirit and love of fun.
The family cabin on Horseshoe Lake was one of her happiest places. She made everyone feel welcome there, and it became the gathering place where memories were made across generations.
She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to laugh, and was always game to try anything fun.
She is survived by her children, Bruce (Sheri), Steve (Valerie Green), Joy (Tim) Cronin, Bonnie Hein, son-in-law Eddie Iskierka, daughter-in-law Deanna Johnson; 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews. Preceded by her husband, Robert (Bob); sons, Wayne and his wife Diane, Chuck, and infant son Robert Mark; daughter, Sandi Iskierka; granddaughters, Jennie Gorski and Megan Johnson; and special friend, Jerry LaCrosse.
She was loved by many and leaves a legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion — a light that will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.
Funeral Service 12:00 pm Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Kapala Glodek-Malone Funeral Home (7800 Bass Lake Road, New Hope) Visitation 10:00 am until time of service.
Interment: Friday, September 18, 2026, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis. Please meet in Assembly Area #4 at 10:45 am.
