Memorial

Shirley Erickson, 94, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Thursday, September 3, 2020, at The Villages of Marion-Memory Care, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. Due to the current Covid-19 situation, a private graveside service for immediate family has been held at Cedar Memorial in Cedar Rapids.

Shirley was born to Leslie and Pearl McConnell on August 7, 1926, in Marshalltown, IA. Her family moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 1939, where she lived the remainder of her life. She married Paul L. Erickson in 1946, after graduating from Roosevelt High School. She spent the majority of her career as a secretary at the Linn-Mar and Cedar Rapids school districts. After her retirement, she dedicated much of her time volunteering for the Linn-Mar school district where her daughter taught. Shirley was also a devoted grandmother and maintained close relationships with each of her grandchildren. She loved shopping with her daughter and spending time with friends and family. Shirley was a classy lady and always had a big smile. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 74 years, Paul; a brother, Dale McConnell of Calimesa, CA; two children, David (Beverly) Erickson of Ft. Myers, FL and Julianne (Dale) Wirtjes of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Cyndi Smith, Stephanie (Andrew) Fulford, Melissa (James) Mitchell, Robert (Jessica) Wirtjes and Holly (Eric) Caldwell; and great-grandchildren, Alecia Smith; Andrew, David and Grace Fulford; Landyn and Lauryn Mitchell; William and Lorna Wirtjes, as well as many nieces and nephews. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl and Leslie; a son, Robert Erickson; a brother, Gerald McConnell; and her sister, Velma Fry.

We would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at The Villages of Marion and Compassus Hospice for their unwavering support, kindness and care.

Memorial donations can be sent in Shirley’s name to:
Compassus Hospice
5005 Bowling St. SW Suite B
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404