Memorial

Shirley I. Olson Neuhaus, of Cedar Rapids passed peacefully on May 8, 2021 at the age of 83.

Preceded in death by her husbands, Richard Olson (1988) and Jack Neuhaus (2007).

Shirley was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as grandmother and great grandmother. She was loving mother of Douglas Olson (Carolyn), Theresa Merritt (Brad), and Jenny Dannen.  Grandchildren Nick, Cody, Adam, Nicole, Blaine, Brittny, and Heath; plus 6 great grandchildren. All of these she loved and touched deeply. 

Shirley will be fondly remembered by family and friends as renowned for her kolache baking, selfless commitment to her churches and community groups. Shirley was a 4-H leader, Mercy Hospital volunteer, member of the Linn County Porkettes and enjoyed her time helping with the Cedar Rapids Follies. 

Shirley worked at Armstrong’s department store, Parsons Technology, Sav-Half Greeting Cards along with being a farmer’s wife.

Thousands of chickens lost their lives at the hands of Shirley each summer, many batches of homemade noodles were made by her, and her children’s 4-H show cattle she photographed were always missing heads or butts in the pictures.

She always told you the truth even if it wasn’t what you wanted to hear. These words of encouragement, wisdom, and sometimes comfort, kept us in line, taught us life’s lessons and gave us something to pass down to our children.

Please join us in celebrating her life with a graveside service, Thursday May 13, 2021, 11:00 a.m. for family and friends at Czech National Cemetery, off the Bowling Street and Wilson Avenue entrance in Cedar Rapids IA 52404.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you forward memorials to Fairfax State Savings Bank, Fairfax, IA. The family will be supporting various charities in her name.