Memorial

Shirley M. Hulen, 80, of Hiawatha, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, surrounded by family.  A memorial service and celebration of life event will be held at Unity Center of Cedar Rapids, 3791 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, on Saturday, May 20th, from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.

Shirley Mae Hittie was born on September 23, 1942; the daughter of Harry Sr. and Virginia (Stern) Hittie. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and held a variety of positions throughout her working years. She earned her CNA license, providing compassionate care to countless people who trusted her. She later worked for a local janitorial company. However, volunteering as a foster grandparent was her favorite post of all. She made many friends and loved getting to know all of the children and other volunteers. She looked forward to watching her boys, the Denver Broncos, NASCAR races, and we’re certain she had “suite” seats at the Kentucky Derby this year. Of course, her daytime SOAPS were guaranteed to be tuned in Monday through Friday, and not to be interrupted. Our Mom enjoyed planting and tending the garden in the backyard of our childhood home.  She loved all flowers and had an amazingly green thumb when it came to houseplants. Shirley also had a soft spot for all animals and that’s why there was always at least one four-legged fur baby in the house.

Left to cherish her memory are her three daughters: Sherry Hulen, Lori (Peter) Haggin, and Crystal Hulen (Daniel Zach); Seven grandchildren: Michael Merritt, Christopher (Taylor) Merritt, and TJ (fiancée Stephanie Hasken) Merritt, Alexander and Ryan Haggin, Jaelyn Robertson and Emma Zach: One great-grandchild: Lukus Stephen-Merritt; Many nieces, nephews and a special cousin, Bootie Hittie.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Harry F. Hittie Jr (Buzzy), Marilyn Hohmann and Ruth Vifian; Ex-husband and friend, Larry W. Hulen Sr. Included in the precious reception that awaited her arrival in Heaven were her  “weenie dogs” Brownie, Casey, Gretchen, Sammy, and Sadie, along with our family’s guardian German Shepherd, Prince and her kitty, Lucy Lu, as they have all been watching for her. 

Shirley's greatest enjoyment in this life was spending time visiting with her family and knowing what was new in everyone's life. Her faith in Jesus Christ was incredibly strong and the love she had for her family was unique and unconditional. Each of us holds many special memories of Mom – Gramma Ma - MaMa close to our hearts. 

We love you more than words can say and miss you even more... We wish you a Happy Mother's Day, today, and for eternity…quoting you, Mom, “Be Happy”!!!