Shirley Jean Reeves Hunziker

Shirley Jean Reeves Hunziker

Shirley Jean Reeves Hunziker, 91, of Altoona, Iowa, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on July 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and beautifully crafted quilts that will comfort generations to come.

Born on June 29, 1935, in Perry, Iowa, Shirley was the daughter of Glen and Veneta Reeves and was raised on the family farm near Adel. Her early education took place in a one-room country schoolhouse just a short walk from home—a journey she fondly joked was "uphill both ways." She later attended Adel High School, where she worked in the school's hot lunch program and, as a young student, was entrusted with carrying the day's receipts to the local bank. During her freshman year, she began riding to school with three boys—one of whom became her sweetheart and, ultimately, the love of her life.

On December 4, 1954, Shirley married Duane Hunziker. Their honeymoon took them to Hawaii, where Duane was stationed with the United States Navy at Pearl Harbor. Together they built a loving marriage that spanned more than seventy-one years, grounded in faith, devotion, and unwavering commitment to one another. With the exception of three and a half years spent in Johnston, Iowa, they made their home in Altoona beginning in 1956, where they faithfully raised their family and became deeply rooted in the community they loved.

After graduating from high school, Shirley worked briefly for Bell Telephone Company in Des Moines before beginning a 29-year career in the loan department at East Des Moines National Bank. Although she didn't approve the loans herself, Duane affectionately referred to her as the "Loan Ranger," a nickname that always brought a smile to those who heard the story.

Shirley's greatest joy, however, was found not in her career but in caring for others. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and cherished great-grandmother. She is survived by her loving husband, Duane; daughter, Valerie Allender (James) of Hughes Springs, Texas, and her son, Mark Hunziker (Wendy) of Pleasant Hill, Iowa. She also leaves behind three grandchildren: Corrine Wheeler (Scott), Anthony Hunziker (Laura), and Heather Scrutchfield (Shawn); and three beloved great-grandchildren, Samantha Wheeler, Rori Wheeler, and Lucas Scrutchfield, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and kindness.

Following retirement, Shirley discovered a passion that became one of her life's greatest ministries—quilting. What began as a hobby quickly became an expression of her generous heart. She lovingly created quilts for family members, baby quilts for newborns at Broadlawns Hospital, baptism quilts for children at Trinity on Fifth Church, and numerous Quilts of Valor honoring veterans who had faithfully served our country. Every quilt she made reflected the patience, care, and love she poured into the lives of others.
Shirley was an active member of the Eastern Polk Quilters Guild, the Red Hat Society, and Christian Women's Club. She faithfully attended Trinity on Fifth Church, where she participated in Sunday School, hosted a small group Bible study in her home, helped prepare the church's famous butterhorn rolls for the annual turkey dinner, and warmly welcomed anyone who crossed her path. Her faith was genuine and unwavering, and she found great joy in inviting others to worship and experience the love of Christ.

Those who knew Shirley will remember her infectious smile, joyful laughter, gentle spirit, and servant's heart. She had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome and valued. Whether through a thoughtful conversation, a warm embrace, a shared meal, or a handcrafted quilt, Shirley quietly demonstrated God's love in countless ways. She believed that the smallest acts of kindness often made the greatest difference.

While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in knowing that her faith has become sight and that she now rests in the eternal peace she so faithfully anticipated.

A visitation will take place from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, July 30 2026, at Trinity on Fifth, 602 5th Ave SW, Altoona, Iowa. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., at the church, with a reception immediately following. Interment to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 NE 60th Ave., in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity on Fifth Church, Caring Hands Food Pantry, or Hope Ministries of Des Moines.

Shirley's life was stitched together with faith, family, friendship, and service—leaving a legacy that, like her quilts, will provide comfort for generations to come.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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