Obituary for Shirley Jean Bendixen

Shirley Jean (Ahl) Bendixen, 92, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Dubuque, Iowa. Born August 23, 1932, in Toronto, Iowa.  Shirley lived a life marked by dedication to her profession, her family and her community. 
 
A proud graduate of Lost Nation High School's Class of 1950, Shirley pursued further education at UNI Iowa State Teachers  College from 1950 -1951.

She then attended St. Luke's Hospital Radiology Technology School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she graduated as a licensed radiology technician in 1953. This achievement launched a remarkable career spanning six decades. Throughout her professional journey, Shirley worked at numerous hospitals, clinics and doctor's offices, touching lives with her expertise and compassion before retiring in 2013.
 
Retirement did not slow Shirley down. Her deep love for coworkers and the friendships built over the years inspired her to volunteer for hospice and hospital services. Always eager to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Shirley found great joy in continuing to serve others well into her later years.
 
Family was the cornerstone of Shirley's life. They are lovingly remembered by her children: Steven J Josvanger (Cindy Hammerlinck) of Davenport, IA; Linda K Josvanger Doran (Clint) Bettendorf, IA; Kent A Josvanger (Amanda) Dubuque, IA; Lisa M Josvanger-Russell, Sparks, NV. Shirley's legacy also lives on through her grandchildren: Chad Oaks (Jennifer), Brandon Klugger (Laurie), Colby Josvanger, Shanelle Josvanger, Larsen Josvanger, Olivia Josvanger; as well as great-grandchildren Alexander Oaks, Aleigha Johnson, MacKenzie Klugger, Brady Klugger, and Maizie Klugger.

Shirley also held a special place in her heart for her 3 nephews John Ahl (Ginger), Phillip Ahl (Rhonda), and Thomas Ahl (Coleen) along with many great nieces and nephews.
 
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Leonard V Ahl and Ruth A Ahl; a brother Wayne Ahl, sister-in-law Carol (Bath) Ahl; Harley C Josvanger (1st spouse); and Hans C Bendixen (2nd spouse).
 
An avid sports enthusiast from an early age, Shirley enjoyed playing basketball and softball growing up. Her passion for sports continued throughout life. She coached her daughter Linda's Dad's Club softball team for 2 years and attended softball, football and baseball games that all of her children participated in. Shirley had a few favorite teams that she would watch with family or friends. The Iowa Hawkeyes, the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers. Shirley loved dancing, traveling and playing cards.
 
Shirley's vibrant spirit was evident to all who knew her. With a kind heart and an upbeat personality that never wavered, she was a friend to everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Volunteering was not just an activity but a calling that brought immense fulfillment to Shirley's life. She thrived on staying active and found great happiness simply being around loving family members, dear friends and cherished classmates.
 
Shirley was a long time member of Zion American Lutheran Church, Wyoming, Iowa. Her spiritual journey and beliefs never waivered. 

In parting words left for those she loved most--children, friends old and new, coworkers--she shared this heartfelt advice:

"Live life to the greatest power "GOD". May everyone be blessed and have a good life. Love from the "Old Gal" who would NOT give in or up!
 
May Shirley Jean Bendixen's memory continue to inspire kindness, resilience and joy among all who knew her.