Leyse, Shirley Ann

Shirley Ann Leyse, 73, of Cedar Rapids, died at home Friday, Aug. 13, 2010. Services: 10 a.m. Tuesday at Concordia Lutheran Church, by the Rev. Jerry Doellinger. Interment: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel and after 9 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel is entrusted with arrangements.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 55 years, Donald; children, Kevin (Tammy) Leyse of Cedar Rapids, Krista (Jeff) Holland of Decorah, Kerri (Marty) Striegel of Cedar Rapids and Kelly (Kara) Leyse of Marion; grandchildren, Shawn, Nick, Heidi (Brandon), Tiffany, Brad, Mike, Damon (Elizabeth), Justin, (Katie), Benjamin, Mitchell, Brent (Dana), Andrew, Amber and Madalyn; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Delores (Glen) Thornton of Decorah; sister-in-law, Geraldine Solem; three nephews; four nieces; and her cat, Bree.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Curtis Solem.

Shirley was born Nov. 23, 1936, in Winneshiek County, to Melvin and Clara Solem. She married Donald Leyse on Sept. 3, 1955, in Cedar Rapids. Shirley was employed at Rockwell Collins for over 26 years, retiring in 1991. She was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Moose Lodge, Eagles, and Lasso E Camper Club. She liked to make wooden crafts and paint. She especially liked spending time with her family and camping with husband and friends in the camping club.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Mercy and staff, especially Cindy, Heather, Cindy and Kim. They also thank Doctors Ghosh and Voight and their staff.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

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