Shirlie Yocom
December 08, 2012
Shirlie Lorraine Yocom, 89, peacefully passed away on Saturday December 8, 2012. She was born in Minot, North Dakota, on February 4, 1923. Her family
relocated to San Jose, CA, when she was very young.
In 1940, Shirlie graduated from San Jose High School. She often shared that young Frank Sinatra performed at her senior prom. World War II led her to a job in Alaska, where she met her future husband who was an officer in the Navy. She relocated to Chariton to marry Curt Yocom on November 1, 1947.
In 1962, Shirlie enrolled at Simpson College and completed her BA, followed by a Master’s Degree in English from NE Missouri State. She made substantial progress towards her Ph.D. For 22 years, Shirlie taught English in the Chariton school system, where she inspired and left a lasting impression on hundreds of students.
Shirlie enjoyed volunteering in her community, where she was active in the Chariton Women’s Club, PEO, and the Lucas County Republican party. She also served as board member of the Arthritis Foundation, Iowa Children’s and Family Services, Iowa Society of Crippled Children & Adults, and the Easter Seals Society. For ten years, Shirlie conducted the Lucas County Easter Seals summer camp in Chariton. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church.
Upon retirement, Shirlie moved to Des Moines. Shirlie was an elegant and independent woman, known for her love of fashion, interior decorating, and anything bright pink. However, her children and grandchildren were her greatest source of pleasure.
Shirlie was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Gladys (Brandt) Redetzke, and her husband Curt Yocom, Sr. She will be lovingly remembered by her two sons Curt, Jr. (Kate), and Brandt Yocom; grandchildren Madelyn, Blake, Tess, Taylor, and Claire; and two great grandchildren, Adair and Veda.
To honor Shirlie’s wishes, no services will be held and her body has been donated to Des Moines University.
Her family would like to thank the very caring staff at Fleur Heights Care Center, and her friends at Mercy Park Apartments.
Any memorial contributions in Shirlie’s name may be directed to the Chariton High School Library to purchase books in her memory.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Curt and Kate Yocom
12/16/2012
Thank you to everyone for sharing your memories of Shirlie. We have enjoyed reading each message, discovering how she touched your lives. We loved her so much and will miss her. We are who we have become because we knew her.
Curt and Kate
Warren Taylor
12/16/2012
Curt, Jr., and Brandt, it's no surprise to you that Shirlie was a stunner. I have a vivid memory of her striding into a Simpson College English class, tall, perfectly dressed, beautiful and elegant. She sat next to me and I offered her a stick of spearmint gum. She looked askance at me and demurred, "Thank you, no. It makes one look like a cow chewing her cud." Ha! I still laugh at that memory these days and smile at the sharp contrast between me, a pimply-faced freshman from Poweshiek County, and your classy mother. I completed my studies at Drake and never saw Shirlie again but my vision of her is indelible.
Jen Pickel
12/16/2012
I loved Shirlie. She was an excellent teacher and took me under her wing when I first began teaching at CHS in 1979. No matter the day, she was always positive. I have tried to keep her example with me in my classroom now 30+ years later. My students and I are going to have a Shirlie Yocom Day tomorrow in her memory-- I will read from Camelot, serve M&Ms, and say, "Hi, Hi, Hi!" when they enter. :) Loved her so. God Bless You in your grieving.
Pat Bauer
12/14/2012
I was fortunate to have Mrs Yocum in both 7th grade and as a senior in high school. Her class was always enjoyable and it was entertaining to watch her take over the room upon her entrance! May she rest and peace.
John Rosa
12/13/2012
Mrs.Yocom was a class act. I feel privileged to have passed her path.
Karen DeVore
12/12/2012
God Bless each and everyone in your families Curt and Brandt for your loss of such a BEAUTIFUL, INSPIRING woman, mother, grandmother, who had such a tremendous impact on everyone she met or taught in school,she will live on in hearts and memories of everyone she met and everyone she taught in school she was well loved by all-- will miss her very much.
Cindy Krutsinger Ferrari
12/12/2012
Mrs. Yocom was one of the classiest ladies I have ever known. A wonderful teacher and an inspiration to so many. I will never forget her. My condolences to your family
Rusty Goering
12/12/2012
Shirley was a great teacher and neighbor. I hope she continues her teaching in heaven. She will be missed. Curt and Brandt our prayers be with you.
CHS Graduate
12/11/2012
Shirley was such an awesome person and had such a great impact on all of her students. If you were in her class, you won't forget her. So sorry for your loss and God bless all of you!
T.N
12/11/2012
Rest in peace Mrs. Yocom! Spread your wings and fly free.... Ty always for being an inspiration. The world lost a beautiful soul....
Penney Braaksma
12/11/2012
Please accept my condolences. Mrs. Yocom was a grand lady and a wonderful inspiration. Always a lovely example of poise and elegance!
Nancy Sharr
12/11/2012
Mrs. Yokum was a remarkable teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Robin McElvain
12/11/2012
Mrs. Yocom is one of the reasons I am a writer and artist. She was a great encourager!
Lee Long
12/11/2012
Curt and Brandt-
May God comfort and bless you during the loss of your mother. She was a very gifted lady and inspired us all!
Lee and Debi Long
Whitney (Johnson) Hanson
12/11/2012
Mrs. Yocum was an exceptional teacher. Prayers to all her family.