Dolores Alston

Dolores (O’Donnell) Alston, age 101, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026. Born on April 27, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Dolores was the second of six children born to Walter and Mary (Maxwell) O’Donnell.

Dolores grew up in a lively, close‑knit Irish Catholic family alongside her 5 brothers. As one of the oldest children, she developed a strong sense of responsibility, resilience, and devotion to family — qualities that stayed with her throughout her long life.

On January 12, 1948, Dolores married Frank William Alston Jr., beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and commitment at St. Sabina in Oak Lawn, Illinois, honoring the faith that shaped both of their lives. Dolores and Frank shared many years together, running Frank’s car dealerships and traveling the world, until his passing in February 1987.

Dolores lived in Oak Lawn, until 1969, when she and her family moved to Des Moines, Iowa. She later made her home in West Des Moines, and ultimately settled in Perry, in 1977, where she spent the remainder of her life.

Dolores was the devoted mother of two daughters, Karyn (Mitch) Shirbroun and Diane Dahlstrom, who were the great joys of her life. She was also the proud grandmother of Jeffrey (Chrissandra) Shirbroun, Juliana (Michael)Shirbroun, Mark Dahlstrom and Jack Dahlstrom.

Throughout her marriage, Dolores was the backbone of Alston Motors, handling the behind‑the‑scenes work that kept everything running smoothly. Her sharp mind, steady presence, and natural business sense were essential to the success of the family’s operations. She was the one who kept the books straight, the customers welcomed, and the wheels turning — often without ever seeking recognition for it.

A devout Catholic, Dolores took great pride in her Irish Catholic heritage. She and Frank were deeply involved in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Des Moines and later at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Perry. She was an active member of the Regina Guild at St. Pat’s and especially loved the annual parish garage sale — where her natural gift as a true saleswoman always shone. Dolores served her parish community as a Eucharistic Minister for many years, bringing comfort and connection to those unable to attend Mass. She also dedicated herself to serving the broader community as a nursing home advocate for the State of Iowa, ensuring that elderly residents were treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

She lived more than a century of extraordinary change with grit, humor, and a spirited personality that never faded. Dolores was bold, sharp, and wonderfully outspoken — never afraid to speak her mind. She could make you laugh, straighten you out, and sell you something you didn’t know you needed, all in the same conversation. Those who knew her will remember her vibrant presence, her deep love for family and Christ, and the legacy of strength and determination she leaves behind.

In her last years, Dolores was blessed by the faithful friendship of Margaret and Martha from St. Patrick’s, who checked in on her regularly. Their visits brought her comfort, companionship, and a cherished connection to the parish she loved so dearly.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026 at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Perry. Burial will follow at the Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry. Memorials may be directed to the St. Patrick’s Regina Guild in Dolores’s honor. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.