Shirley Macal

Sunday, April 9, 2023 6:42 pm

Shirley Macal, age 85 of Decorah, passed away on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at the Helms Funeral Home, 604 South Ave in Decorah followed by a memorial service with Rev. Peter Kowitz presiding. Burial will be in the Freeport Cemetery later this summer. Helms Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Shirley (Wray) Macal was born on Nov. 6, 1937 in Visalia, Calif., the daughter of Elzie and Ruby Christine (Boyd) Wray. She attended Lindsey California Public School. On June 5, 1965, she was united in marriage to Edwin Macal in Decorah.

Shirley spent her entire married life living in Decorah. She was passionate about her job of 32 years as a nurse’s aide at the County Home, now Wellington. Working with the elderly brought her joy. Shirley was a long-time Avon representative and also worked at The Depot Outlet Thrift Store. Prior to that, she was employed at Luther College in the cafeteria. In her spare time, she enjoyed garage sales, having her own, going to the casino and cooking for her family. Fried Chicken and potato salad were the top favorites. Spending time with family especially the grandchildren is what she loved.

Shirley is survived by her husband: Edwin Macal, Decorah; two children: Dean (Melissa) Macal, Rosemount, Minn., and Lisa (Chad) Kloubec, Fairfax; six grandchildren: Jacob Kloubec, Justin Kloubec, Ethan Macal, Macey Macal, Reid Macal and Lynleigh Macal; sister: Geraldine Zemp, Glenda (Rick) Foshee; and brother: Dave Wray and Lyman (Fay) Wray.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents: Elzie and Ruby Christine (Boyd) Wray; sister: Linda McManus and Verla (Larry) Boyles; brothers: Albert (Shirley) Wray; sister-in-law: Nancy Macal and Fran Wray; brother-in-law: Lee Zemp; mother-in-law: Myrtle Macal.