Shirley Dostal, 69, of Howells, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Funeral Mass will be 10:30am on Tuesday, February 24, at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Howells with Rev. Walter Jong-A-Kiem as celebrant. Burial will be at Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery with lunch following at the Howells Catholic Community Social Hall. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with a Vigil Service at 7:00pm at church. Memorials may be made to the Howells Public Library. Arrangements by Stokely Funeral Home.

Shirley was born on March 19, 1956, in Howells, Nebraska, to Raymond and Arlene (Fendrick) Hegemann.

On February 12, 1983, she married the love of her life, Michael L. Dostal. Their 43 years of marriage are marked by a love that ran deep. Whether casting a line at the lake, sitting around a campfire, or simply enjoying the outdoors together – her happiest moments were spent with the people she loved most.

Shirley was a proud and loving mother to her two children, Michael E. Dostal (Bethany Dirkschneider) and Sara (Adam) Gasper. Nothing brought her greater joy than her role as “Grandma.” She treasured her three granddaughters—Lydia, Millie, and Laney—and her grandson, Isaac.

For over 30 years, Shirley devoted her life to caring for children through her daycare. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in the lives she shaped and the families who loved her dearly.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; her children, Michael (Bethany) of Howells, Sara (Adam) of Cairo; her grandchildren, Lydia, Millie, Laney, and Isaac; her siblings, Daniel (Rita) of West Point, Jeanette (Steve) Collier of Newhall, CA, Dale (Mary Kay) of Columbus, Donald (LaDonna) of Lincoln, Darryl (Deb) of Howells, Dean (Linda) of Hastings, and Delwin (Carol) of Howells; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Arlene Hegemann; mother and father-in-law, Lambert and Marilyn; and sisters-in-law, Patti Molacek and Patty Dostal.

Shirley will be remembered for her generous heart, her strength, her unwavering love for family, and the way she made everyone feel welcome at her table and in her home. Her legacy of love, care, and devotion will continue through all who were blessed to know her.