Obituary of Sharon Lyseng

It is with great sadness that the family of Sharon Elaine Lyseng (nee Harke) announces her sudden passing on July 22, 2013 at her home in Cochrane, Alberta at the age of 69 years. Sharon was born on April 16, 1944 in Edmonton, Alberta to Morris and Martha (Wolff) Harke. She died at home in Cochrane, Alberta on Monday, July 22, 2013 at the age of 69. Sharon's early years were spent in New Sarepta. When she was in Grade 8, the family (which now included younger sister Betty Jane) moved to Camrose, where Sharon graduated from High School. Sharon went on to University of Alberta to earn her B.Sc. in 1965. During her time at U of A, Sharon met Merlin Lyseng and they married following graduation. Sharon worked as a Systems Analyst until their son Darren was born in Edmonton. Shortly after moving to Vancouver two years later, their daughter Susan was born. Sharon later returned to University to obtain her teacher certification. Subsequent moves took them from Vancouver to Kamloops, Edmonton, Kamloops, Calgary, Kelowna, Stony Plain, and finally to Cochrane, just one month ago. In addition to her primary role as a generous and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Sharon worked as a substitute teacher, as a sales merchandiser, and as business partner to Merlin. In Merlin's own words, they were a husband-wife team; she held down the fort. Although the diagnosis of Parkinson's 12 years ago altered the course of their lives, the heart and the soul of Sharon remained: loving, intelligent, caring, and compassionate. These are the attributes we will treasure forever in our memory of Sharon. She was truly a focal point for her family, connecting everyone in a way that will be greatly missed. Left to cherish their memories of Sharon are her loving husband of 47 years, Merlin; one son, Darren (Krisanne) of Calgary; one daughter, Susan (Stephen) Johnson of St. Louis, MO; six grandchildren, Duncan, Kira, Zeya, Keszia, Rayelle, and Alese Lyseng all of Calgary; one sister, Betty Jane (Robert) Hegerat of Calgary; seven nieces and nephews. Sharon will be fondly remembered by many other family members and loving friends. Into your heart we came, and in ours you will stay. A Funeral Service was held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 27, 2013, from First Lutheran Church (7102 14th Ave S.W. Calgary, Alberta) with Pastor Julianne officiating. Inurnment has taken place. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to Parkinson Alberta.