Gwen Elaine Shackleton, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024, at the age of 82 in Manly, Iowa. Born on August 5, 1942, in Mitchell County, Iowa, Gwen was a cherished member of her community, known for her kindness and nurturing spirit.

A funeral service will be held 12:00pm Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Bethel United Methodist Church, 503 S East St, Manly, IA 50456. Visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 7:00pm Friday, December 6, 2024 at Bride Colonial Chapel 110 E Spring St, Manly, IA 50456 and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Gwen's life was marked by her dedication to her family, her work, and her community. A proud graduate of North Central High School with the class of 1960, she carried the lessons of her youth throughout her life. Gwen found her calling at Mercy Hospital, where she served as a nutritional care assistant since 1994. Her gentle touch and warm smile were comforts to all she helped during her years of service. She was united in marriage to Morris “Gene” Shackleton June 12, 1960 in Merlo, Iowa.

Her commitment to her faith was evident in her involvement with Bethel United Methodist Church in Manly, Iowa. Gwen also shared her time and talents with the Manly American Legion Auxiliary Post #110, where she formed lasting friendships and made significant contributions to the lives of veterans and their families.

Gwen's passions were as nurturing as her personality. She found joy in the simplicity of sewing, reading, and cross-stitch.The beauty of her flower and vegetable gardens was a testament to her patience and care, and her love for coloring brought vibrancy to her life. Gwen was a formidable Scrabble player, always striving to improve her vocabulary and challenge her mind.

A devoted fan of daytime dramas, Gwen never missed an episode of "The Young and the Restless" or "The Bold and the Beautiful." Her love for these stories was only matched by her love for real-life conversations, especially those with folks in the care center, where she never hesitated to put others before herself.

Gwen's family was the cornerstone of her existence. She is survived by her loving sons, Scott (Kelli) Shackleton of Mason City, Ronald Shackleton of Mason City, and Robert (Janell) Shackleton of Nora Springs. Her legacy is carried on through her adoring grandchildren, Jessica (Allan), Bethany (Cory), Levi (Kaitlyn), Dylan (Jamie), Brody, Kylie, Cole (Tamika), Sam (Kennedie), Shelby (Lane), Brayden, and Keigan. Her great-grandchildren, Andrew, Alyssa, Ashton, Anthony (Courtney), Bengamin (Heather), Ethan, Grahm, Jaxon, Jerzie, Avelyn, Nicholas, Paisley, Knox, and Karson; as well as her great-great-grandchildren, Charles and Rosemary, will miss her deeply. Gwen also leaves behind her sisters, Leanna (Steve) Anderson and Judy Schotanus; sister-in-law, Kathy Deets, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by her generosity and warmth.

Preceding her in death were her beloved husband, Gene, her parents, Walter and Elaine Deets, her brothers, Larry, Bernard, and John; parents in-law, Elmer and Inez Shackleton; sister-in-law Irene (Jack) Webb; and brothers-in-law, David Schotanus, Clyde (Ella) Shackleton, Orie (Mary) Shackleton.