In loving memory of

Shirley Ann Behrens
November 1, 1950 - June 27, 2019

Shirley Ann Behrens, 68, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2019, at her home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A natural journey farewell with cremation has taken place. There are no public visitation or services planned at this time.

Shirley Ann "Debbie" Jenkins was born on November 1, 1950 in Washington, Iowa, to Charles and Mary (Childerhouse) Jenkins. She grew up in Columbus Junction and graduated from Columbus Junction High School in 1968. She married Kenneth Behrens on December 24, 1975 in Miles, Iowa.

Shirley had worked as an office assistant at Burpee Seeds in Clinton from 1975 to 1980, and later as an office assistant at Schultz Enterprises in Columbus Junction from 1984 to 2011. She and Kenneth moved to Maquoketa in 2013.

Shirley's favorite hobby was working with stained glass.

Those left to honor Shirley's memory include her husband, Kenneth Behrens of Maquoketa, IA; a daughter, Alexya (Thomas) Lewis of Marlington, WV; 2 grandchildren; and a brother William "George" Jenkins. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Jack Jenkins.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family and online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Tributes

Rick Williams wrote on Jul 3, 2019:

"Debbie had that voice quality that cut through crowd noise; her encouragement was distinguishable on the football field or on the gym floor. She had a deep and infectious laugh that made it obvious when she enjoyed a good story or joke. She was either a very good listener or had extensive social connections because Debbie always knew much more than I did about what was really going on in school and thankfully, she shared that knowledge with me. On a more personal note, I remember her as kind, accepting, thoughtful and always generous. She was one of those rare friends who took nearly as much pleasure in your accomplishments as you did. To me she was just a lovely person and I will smile when I think of her. Rick Williams--Clasmate"

Sally Caruso wrote on Jul 2, 2019:

"I wrote a tribute but must not posted it correctly because I don't see it. So fun in Jr High to meet the Cotter & Conesville kids. I immediately like Debbie (Cotter) for her bubbly personality and warmth. Even though we didn't see each other for decades, it was always like no time had passed & we picked up where we left off. I was so happy to see her at Barb Helmick's wedding and a few times after that. And thank you Ken for your loving care that kept her going. Sally McGinnis Caruso - CCHS 1968 "

Carla Bruns wrote on Jul 1, 2019:

"I have so many wonderful memories from high school through our joint hair cut appointments and sharing our Chinese dinners..to having endless conversations, .nobody compares to our Debbie....there?s a void in my life...so, so many memories, Kenny you are her best of herself?Jim and I will always have her in our hearts??"

Debbi Summy Vischer wrote on Jun 30, 2019:

"Debbie was one of the three Debbies in our class. I was another. I have many memories of us both playing clarinet in band. She was always the best and had first chair. So sorry for your loss Ken. Debbi Summy Vischer"

Barbara Helmick wrote on Jun 30, 2019:

"I will never forget our many good laughs, long phone conversations, our shared experience of growing up together. My heart goes out to Ken and all of Shirley-Debbie's (as I called her) family. Her memory will be a blessing for me and may it be so for you, too. "

Kelly Nugent wrote on Jun 30, 2019:

"May the four winds blow her safely home. Kelly Nugent - CCHS 1968"

Susie Leonhard wrote on Jun 30, 2019:

"Randy and I are sorry for your loss. Susie Leonhard"