Raleigh Robert Shirbroun

Raleigh Robert Shirbroun, 71, of rural Coon Rapids, Iowa, passed away on October 1, 2025, at his family farm—a place that held his heart and defined so much of his life. A devoted father, brother, and friend, Raleigh will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to family, hard work, and the simple joys of farm life.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held on Saturday October 18, 2025, from 4-7 at the Bur Oak Visitors Center near Coon Rapids.

A private graveside service will be held at the Union Township Cemetery near Coon Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for a later designation.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Coon Rapids and online condolences may be left for the family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com

Born on March 21, 1954, in Carroll, Iowa, Raleigh was the eldest son of Everett “Dwain” and Lois Helen (Bauer) Shirbroun. Raleigh graduated from Coon Rapids High School in 1973 and grew up learning the value of perseverance and responsibility on the family farm—lessons that guided him throughout his life. On September 18, 1982, Raleigh was united in marriage to Geralyn “Geri” Hoffmann. They later divorced but remained good co-parents and friends. Raleigh took tremendous pride in watching his children grow into adults, marry, and start families of their own. The arrival of his grandchildren brought even greater joy, softening his heart, bringing out a more tender and loving side of him.

Raleigh’s career reflected the same steadfastness that marked his personal life. He spent many years working for Garst and Thomas Seed Company in Coon Rapids before joining West Central Cooperative (currently Landus Cooperative), in 1995, where he remained a valued employee for the past 30 years. Whether in the fields or at work, Raleigh was known for his reliability, quiet strength, and unmatched work ethic—traits that inspired those around him. Raleigh continued to farm with his brother right up until his death as he took his last pass combining corn the evening before with his daughter, Holly right by his side.

Whether it was meticulously mowing the yard along Highway 141, decorating his children’s bicycles for homecoming parades, or designing the best and most creative floats for the Carroll County Fair Parade, Raleigh always put careful thought and effort into everything he did. His creativity, patience, and knack for making things special are fondly remembered by family and friends. A man of few words, yet Raleigh made everyone he met feel remembered and valued.

Raleigh is survived by his children Nicole (Denny) Esslinger, Holly (Josh) Namanny, and Nathan (Rachael) Shirbroun; his sister Connie Shirbroun-Bitzes; his brother Brad (Annie) Shirbroun; his beloved grandchildren, Peyton, Mason, Lilyan, Emmett, Jasper, Bailey, Kaity, Cooper, Kyra, Greyson, and Devon, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Dwain and Lois Shirbroun, and brother-in-law George Bitzes.

Your last harvest is finished, Dad, and you now have the best seat in the house to watch over us. Rest easy—we will continue the work, the traditions, and the love you planted in all of us. You will forever be loved and dearly missed.