Memorial
Patricia A. Paul-Shilhanek, 87 of Cedar Rapids formerly of Alburnett, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. Visitation Saturday, October 26, at 9 AM until 11 AM. A Graveside Service will immediately follow at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. To honor Pat’s love of sports, please feel free to dress casual and support your favorite sports team.
Pat was born January 21, 1937, in Waukon, IA the daughter of Francis and Orpha (Buege) Huffman. Pat attended Marion High School, graduating in 1954.
Pat was very strong,independent and had a great work ethic. Working while in high school at the Marion Theater and after graduation at Weber Paint. She started a career at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company/US West for almost 40 years upon retiring in 1995.
She married Darwin “Clem” Paul in Iowa City, IA, on July 21, 1957. To this union Laura and Lisa were born. They enjoyed many family vacations and so many special times together. Clem passed away February 13, 1992.
On April 4, 1997, she married Frederick “Fred” Shilhanek. They spent their time traveling, winter trips to Florida and daily trips to Panera and enjoyed the many friends they met along the way. He died June 21, 2016.
Pat is survived by her children, Laura (Lindy) Crosby and Lisa (Brian) Kristiansen. Her grandchildren; Steph (Brett) Kruse, Nick Crosby (Alex), Kaitlyn Kristiansen (Jackson) and Kyle Kristiansen. One great grandchild Kendal Kruse. She was also survived by sisters Judy (Carl) Gaulke and Karen Simmons and many nieces and nephews.
She is also survived by stepchildren; Terri Ann Bland, Damon Shilhanek, Susan Parker, Chris Shilhanek, and Nancy Zlatohlavek and their spouses including several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She was preceded into death by her parents; her first husband Darwin “Clem” Paul and second husband Frederick “Fred” Shilhanek, and brother-in-law Dale Simmons.
In lieu of flowers, the family will direct memorials to Alburnett Historical Society, or Gems of Hope.
She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.