Shirley Mae Shrader

Shirley Mae Shrader, age 92, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on August 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 20^th, 2026, from 4PM to 7PM at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321.  A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 21^st, 2026, at 10 AM at Sunset Memorial Chapel.  Following the service, Shirley will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Gardens.   

Shirley was born on February 18, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was the youngest of eleven children. Her life was marked by perseverance, a strong work ethic, and a fiery spirit that matched the red hair she proudly wore for many years. She worked hard throughout her life, spending many years cleaning for others and continuing to work well into her later years. 

Above all, Shirley was the mother of five sons, grandmother of six, and great-grandmother of eleven. Her family became one of the greatest legacies of her long life. She was especially blessed in her later years by the devotion of her sons, who lovingly cared for her and made sure she was surrounded by kindness and support. Special thanks to The Addington Place and Suncrest for their care as well. 

Shirley had a personality all her own. She loved dancing, bowling, country music, Elvis, playing cards, watching westerns, crime, and courtroom television shows, and spending time with family and friends. 

A devoted Catholic and member of Christ the King congregation, Shirley's faith remained an important part of her life.

Shirley is survived by her five sons, Ralph Wolinski, Kevin Wolinski (Kim Cross), Lawrence (Heidi) Wolinski, Tony Wolinski, Ray Shrader (Holly Nuehring); her six grandchildren: Ashley (Steven) Norton, Danielle (Trevor) Matsen, Chance (Carrie) Wolinski, Blake (Kacie) Wolinski, Austyn (Erin Glidewell) Shrader, and Blair Wolinski; eleven great-grandchildren; and her sister Jane Cocanate. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Minnie Brown; nine siblings; her husband, Ray Shrader; and daughter-in-law, Monica Wolinski. 

Shirley will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Croatian Slavic Center, 6575 Indianola Ave Des Moines, IA,50320