Gladys Shumway
August 25, 2011
Gladys Asbe Shumway, 94, passed away August 25, 2011, at Fleur Heights Care Center. She was born December 15, 1916, to Anfin and Mabel Asbe in Kanawha, Iowa.
Gladys was a graduate of Kanawha High School and obtained her two year teaching degree from Waldorf College. She taught in a country school prior to moving to Des Moines during WWII to work at the airplane factory. She later worked for Iowa Pack and retired from Banker’s Life (currently Principal). After retirement, Gladys did volunteer work and took classes at DMACC and Grandview College. She was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Des Moines.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Shumway; sisters, Alma Asbe and Wilma Post; and her brothers, Merle and Harold Asbe. She is survived by her nephews, Gilbert (Karen) Asbe, Gary (Becky) Post and Duane Asbe; her nieces, Peggy (Mark) Cummings and Nancy (Kent) Loehr; and their families.
A graveside service will take place at a later date at Norway Township Cemetery in Kanawha, Iowa.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Animal Rescue League, 5452 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313 in loving memory of Gladys.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Fleur Heights Care Center and Hospice of Central Iowa who cared for Gladys in her final days.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Mary Fischer
08/28/2011
Gladys and I were both residents at Wakonda Village, and the St. John's church secretary brought us together after Gladys gave up driving. It was my privilege to be her driver and to become her friend. Her kindness, sense of humor, and positive attitude will be missed. I am thankful that I was able to visit her on Tueday and give her one last hug. You, her family, have my sympathy.
Cindy Fischer
08/28/2011
I am saddened to hear of the passing of this lovely lady. I lived next door to her for years growing up. She was always so kind and generous. I remember thinking her yard a magical place; it seemed so large. Funny, when I drive by now, it really isn't so big.