Shirley Ann Runksmeier was born January 31, 1935, near Ledyard, Iowa, the daughter of Alfred and Violet (Pingel) Miller. She grew up on a farm and attended school in Ledyard and after graduating she went on to attend Waldorf College to become a teacher. She later taught school in the Ledyard and Lakota school districts, but her heart’s desire was to be a farmer.
Funeral services for Shirley Runksmeier were held on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Bethany Evangelical and Reformed Church in Ledyard. Burial was at Highland Home Cemetery in Leyard.
On June 9, 1957, Shirley was united in marriage to a farmer, Marlin Runksmeier, at the Bethany E&R Church in Ledyard. They lived and farmed northwest of Ledyard and were blessed with two children, Cheryl and Craig. Shirley was a good farmer and a good mother.
Shirley enjoyed everything that went into her life on the farm including watching her grandchildren in their many activities and sporting events, baking, making food for her family, and going into town for coffee and talking with her coffee friends.
Shirley passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at Accura Healthcare of Bancroft at the age of 89.
She is survived by her husband, Marlin Runksmeier; daughter, Cheryl and husband, Dr. Tim Hamp of Fairmont, MN; son, Craig Runksmeier and wife, Julie of Ledyard; grandchildren, Laura (Pete) Odgren, Robert Hamp, Jaci (Joel) Riordan, Cody (Mackenzie) Runksmeier, Colin (Breanna) Runksmeier. Also surviving are five great-grandchildren, Henry and Violet Odgren; Jaire and Jorie Riordan and Rowdy Runksmeier.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Arrangements were handled by Oakcrest Funeral Services of Bancroft. Condolences may be left at www.oakcrestfuneralservices.com.
