Shirley Ann Girkin

Shirley A. Girkin, 88 of Waterloo, died April 12, 2026, at MercyOne Waterloo. She was born October 29, 1937, in Longville, MN, daughter of Samuel Edward and Ethel May (Ford) Slagle. She graduated from Longville High School in 1955.

She married Raymond E. Strait- they later divorced. Then, later married Alvin (Al) J. Girkin on June 5, 1979. He died August 22, 2022. Shirley worked for the Waterloo Community Schools at East High School in the cafeteria and kitchen until she retired at the age of 73 years old. She loved to garden and her flowers and loading the bird feeders. Shirley loved a good deal, going to rummage sales on the weekends. Family was very important to her, sending cards on special occasions and birthdays. Shirley had a gift of cooking in the kitchen and shared her recipes with her kids and friends.

Shirley is survived by her three sons: Arnold Strait of Waterloo, Ronald (Judy) Strait of Cedar Falls and James (Pam) Strait of Waterloo. Her daughter, Carolyn (Dave) Bare of Pleasantville, IA and daughter in law, Christine Strait of Clear Lake, IA. Her stepson: Rod Girkin of Madison, WI; three stepdaughters, Becky Sieve of Aurora, CO., Laure Meyer of Sumner, IA, and Kathy Fish of Waverly, IA. 23 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Her brother, Frank Slagle, and sister, Jean Fishel.

She is preceded in death by her husband: Alvin ‘Al’ Girkin, her son: Tim Strait. Four brothers: Edward, Gary, Harlan and Charles Slagle. Three sisters: Janice Kline, Doris Demars, and Joyce Miller.

Family directed celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date.

Memorials are directed to the family.