Shirley Eustis

Shirley Ann Eustis, 88, a beloved member of the Albert Lea community, passed away on April 25, 2024, in the Mayo Clinic Health System-Austin Campus.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00PM on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Albert Lea American Legion Post 56, with Pastor Mark Boorsma officiating. The family will receive friends at a visitation to be held from 12-2:00PM at the Legion. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting www.BonnerupFuneralService.com. Interment will be held on May 17, 2024, at the Minnesota Veterans Cemetery in Preston. 

Born on February 6, 1936, in Albert Lea, Shirley was the daughter of the late Harlen and Myrtle (Harriet) Johnson Noland. Following her graduation from Albert Lea High School, Shirley proudly served in the United States Air Force before pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Throughout her life, Shirley was known for her unwavering dedication to others and her community. She actively participated in the American Legion Post 56, where she held the esteemed positions of historian and past commander. Shirley's commitment to service extended beyond her professional duties, as she dedicated her time to volunteering at the Senior Citizen's Center, bringing joy to those around her with her kindness and compassion.

Shirley's love for creativity and crafting shone brightly through her hobbies. Her passion for photography, traveling, and crafting, particularly making greeting cards, captured her adventurous spirit and eye for beauty. Those who knew Shirley well affectionately called her a “spitfire”, as she was known for her fiercely independent nature and strong work ethic.

Those left to cherish Shirley’s memory include her four children, Cheryl (Mike) Wiskirchen, Greg Eustis, Thomas Eustis, and Lisa (Jeff) Olson; eight grandchildren, Sam, Seth, Shane, Ciarra, Cali, Tiffany, Michael, and Allan; five great-grandchildren; several extended family members; and countless friends. 

In addition to her parents, Harlen and Myrtle, Shirley was preceded in death by an infant son, and a sister, Ada Kuethe.