Shirley L. Lucas Death, Obituary – Our thoughts and prayers extend to the family and friends of Shirley L. Lucas during this difficult time. Shirley, aged 92, peacefully passed away on August 19, 2023, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf.
A memorial service to honor Shirley’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 3, 2023, at the Eldridge United Methodist Church. Following the service, Shirley will be laid to rest at Davenport Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Jane’s Place at C.A.S.I or the American Diabetes Association. If you’d like to express your condolences or share fond memories.
Born on July 27, 1931, in Keokuk, Iowa, Shirley was the daughter of Geraldine (Calhoun) and Arlo Rand. After completing high school, she managed a fabric store in Kewanee, Illinois. Her career path later led her to work as a Bookkeeper for Martin Engineering and Russel Electric until her retirement in 1989. In her personal life, Shirley embarked on two beautiful marital journeys—first with Wayne Balsar on January 25, 1953, with whom she raised four children, and later with Arthur Lucas on June 21, 1987. Arthur sadly preceded her in death on December 21, 2003.
Shirley’s family held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her talents shone through her sewing, where she poured her love into quilts made as graduation gifts. Her culinary skills were equally cherished, as her homemade yeast donuts, fried chicken, and ham salad on white bread became beloved favorites.
As we remember Shirley’s loving presence, we cherish the memories she leaves behind. Survived by her children, Cathy Jo “CJ” Albertson, Conda (Dave) McFee, Clint (Ticia) Balsar, and daughter-in-law Carol Balsar, along with a legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Shirley’s impact will continue to be felt by those fortunate enough to have known her.
