Shirley M. Parks, 81, of Wahoo, NE, formerly of Hastings, NE, died on Saturday, December 26, 2015 at her home. Shirley was born on January 26, 1934 to Walter and Blanche (Jager) Lucht in Columbus, Nebraska. She was raised in Columbus and Omaha, NE. She later worked for the ammunitions plant in Grand Island, NE until her marriage to Russell Parks on November 13, 1954. Following their marriage the couple settled in Columbus. There they enjoyed listening to Polka and traveling to many polka dances and festivals.

Shirley enjoyed collecting dolls, sewing, playing cards, and drinking coffee. She had a large heart and was always concerned about others. She always had an open door and found joy in listening to the stories and journeys of other people’s lives. Shirley loved her four legged companion, Yippy. Above all she kept the focus of her life on her family; particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Myra and Richard Hoffart of Omaha, NE, Bruce Parks of Reno, NV, Barbara and Gary Michka of Fernley, NV, Coleen and David Koehler of Wahoo, and Randy Parks of Wahoo; grandchildren, Jim and Wanda Hoffart, Ray Hoffart, Tom and Andrea Hoffart, Christy Doyen, Jeff Doyen, Chris Koehler, Adam Koehler, Emily and Tyler Hodges, Jerry Parks, and Jesse Parks; 24 great-grandchildren; brother, Willis Lucht; sister, Nina Douglas; many nieces and nephews; and beloved pet, Yippy.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Russell; brothers, Harlan and Bobby; and sisters, Noma and Janice.