Shirley Ruth Klapal, age 97, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Shirley was born in Nebraska to Valentine August Mockenhaupt and Iola Belle (Fisher) Mockenhaupt. She grew up with strong values of hard work and family that she carried with her throughout her life.

Shirley met her husband, Adolph “Frank” Klapal, while working at the Elgin Watch Company in Lincoln, Nebraska. The two were married on May 7, 1955, beginning a lifelong marriage built on love, dedication, and shared ambition. Together, they built a life rooted in family and entrepreneurship, opening four service stations in Lincoln before moving to Colorado, where they owned and operated two auto parts stores. Shirley played an essential role in their business ventures, keeping the books and helping ensure their success.

After retiring, Shirley and Frank moved to Arizona, where they enjoyed a new chapter of life together before eventually settling in Grand Junction to be closer to family.

Shirley was known for her quiet strength, steady presence, and deep devotion to her family. She found her greatest joy in time spent with her loved ones and took pride in the life she and Frank built together. Whether supporting the family business, caring for her home, or simply being there for those she loved, she did so with grace and humility.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Klapal, and her daughter, Jacque Gaskill.

Shirley is survived by her late daughter’s husband William; grandchildren, Jason (Rebekah) and Jamie (Brad); and her great-grandchildren, Cheyenne, Linkin, Shay, Skylar, and Micah.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Brown’s Cremation & Funeral Service. A celebration of life will be held at the VA cemetery in Grand Junction on Saturday, July 10th at 3pm Burial to follow.

Memorial contributions can be made in Shirley’s name to the Royce Hurst Humane Society or Grand River Humane Society.