Sharon Kay Stalder, 71, passed away peacefully February 4, 2025, in Jefferson. Born August 2, 1953, in Carroll, to Violette and Harold Christensen, she spent her childhood on a farm outside of Scranton. She graduated from Scranton High School in 1971, where she enjoyed her time playing 6 on 6 basketball. Sharon’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, love, and dedication to family.
Sharon’s journey through life was marked by her commitment to her family and community. On September 6, 1975, she married John Stalder in Scranton, and together they raised a family that grew to include a son, Kyle, and three daughters, Breanne, Bethany and Karlin and their spouses Cheri, Jacen, Jayson, and Ryan. Sharon’s joy was multiplied with the arrival of each grandchild: Bryce, Kaylee, Zack, Tatym, Abigail, Jacob, Olivia, Trent, and grandchild number nine on the way. Each one of them is a precious gift that she cherished deeply.
She graduated from Iowa State University in 1975 with a degree in family and consumer sciences, which she put to use as a stay-at-home mom. She embraced this role, pouring her heart and soul into raising her children and their spouses and later nurturing her grandchildren. Sharon’s loving spirit extended beyond her own family, as she became a beloved figure in her community through her various roles. She was a dedicated 4-H leader and judge, and a softball coach.
Sharon’s professional path reflected her caring nature, as she served as a special education paraprofessional, offering support and encouragement to students with special needs. Her creativity and culinary skills were renowned at Deal’s Orchard and the farmer’s market, where her pies and other baked goods became a cherished local treat. A loyal Cyclone fan, Sharon never missed an opportunity to cheer on her team.
Her commitment to her grandchildren was unmatched and she was their biggest fan. She was a constant presence in their lives, attending every game, performance, and school event when possible. Grandma always checked in before the grandkids’ activities to offer encouragement and support and followed up afterwards to let each kid know how proud of them she was.
Sharon’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She served her church as an organist and Sunday school teacher, sharing her musical talents and fostering the spiritual growth of countless young people. Her thoughtful and faith-filled nature was evident to all who knew her, and she provided comfort and guidance as a leader in support and podcast groups. Her faith in Jesus was evident as she provided a listening ear and comforting words to all who needed her.
In her personal time, Sharon had an affinity for the outdoors. She found joy in biking and walking, often finding friends and neighbors along the way to have a friendly chat. Gardening was another way she enjoyed fresh air, raising several vegetables each season and she enjoyed having the beauty of many plants in the yard. Another love was bird watching and trying different types of feed to attract any type of bird possible. Her hands were rarely idle, as she delighted in crafting, baking, and putting puzzles together. An avid reader, Sharon’s thirst for knowledge was a source of pleasure, comfort, and relaxation.
Sharon’s life was filled with threads of love, service, and faith. Those who were fortunate enough to cross her path experienced the warmth of her thoughtful gestures and the strength of her faith-filled presence. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will be cherished forever. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of purpose, strength, courage, perseverance and boundless love.
Sharon is survived by her husband John Stalder of Jefferson; son Kyle (Cheri) Stalder of Jefferson, daughter Breanne (Jacen) VonDielingen of Phoenix, AZ, daughter Bethany (Jayson) Persch of Cave Creek, AZ, and daughter Karlin (Ryan) Passehl of McFarland, WI; grandchildren Bryce Stalder, Kaylee Stalder, Zack Stalder, Tatym Stalder, Abigail VonDielingen, Jacob VonDielingen, Olivia Persch, Trent Passehl and baby Passehl; brother Glen (Cheryl) Christensen; sister-in-law Cheryl Stalder; and brother-in-law Glen Stalder; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents Violette and Harold Christensen; parents-in-law Jean and Joseph Stalder, brother-in-law Kenneth Stalder; sister-in-law Victoria Duensing; and nephew Ryan Christensen.
