Shirley Brondum Obituary

SHIRLEY ANN FRANCES BRONDUM
October 15, 1935 December 9, 2020
Shirley Brondum, a 49-year resident of Widefield, Colorado passed away December 9, 2020. Shirley's heart gave up the battle of fighting severe illnesses throughout many years. She was born in Ipswich, England the daughter of Frederick William Smith and Frances Elizabeth Louise Smith (formerly Sheppard). She is sister of Maureen Freda and husband John Prins (both deceased) of Sanborn, IA; Paul Frederick Smith and his wife Margaret (deceased); and John Barry Smith and his wife Carol all of which reside in Ipswich, England.
As a child Shirley grew up in England during WW II. Throughout her life she reminisced and shared with family the countless memories of that six-year span. As a testament to her character, more than remembering just the hardships of war she recalled more of the happy times and making the most of situations. She would confess to having had a happy childhood and not knowing any better or anything different. It formed who she was as a person.
Shirley first met Ronald Brondum through mutual friends. Ron was a USAF airman assigned to Bentwaters RAF Station near Woodbridge, England and had gone to a gathering of a fellow airman who was married to an English girl. Shirley was a good friend of the girl and also attended this gathering. Well, the sparks flew and the chemistry was there between Shirley and Ron and they each met the love of their lives. They just celebrated 65 years of marriage together on September 24, 2020.
Shirley and Ron have four great children: Michael and his wife Becky; Mark; Susan Barbosa and her husband Joe; Daryl and his former wife Brenda. Susan was previously married to Robert Gordan Pettis III who passed away February, 14, 2016.
Shirley's grandchildren are Venessa Long and husband Will; Daniel Pettis and wife LeAnn; Kyle Brondum and wife Stephaney; Jacob, Sarah, Kate Brondum; and Derek Hanson. Great grandchildren Cameron, Kaiden and Brooke; and numerous nieces and nephews. Niece Gwen Hager had the closest relationship with Shirley.
Being a military wife, she not only lived in many places, but on occasion had to raise the children on her own as Ron had several remote, unaccompanied tours overseas. In addition to two long English stays, she has lived in: Orlando, FL; New Orleans and Bossier City, LA; Belchertown and Falmouth, MA; and Sun Prairie, WI before settling in Colorado.
She worked for a number of years during the 80s as an assistant cook at Widefield Elementary School and she loved working with children.
Shirley was a mother figure to a number of USAF Academy cadets while her son Daryl was also attending the academy in the 1980s. The cadets enjoyed hanging out at her home to rewind from the rigors of academy life. They never forgot her support, smiles, and kindness. To this day they have kept in touch and now have sent their condolences.
She loved to laugh, knitting, reading, water aerobics, and playing the poker slots at Cripple Creek. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and decent person who will be greatly missed.
A family viewing at Dove-Witt Funeral Home took place December 16, 2020. Due to the coronavirus situation, there may be no further arrangements.