Sharon Van Esch, 68, Owatonna

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sharon Lynn Van Esch, a courageous soul who faced life's greatest adversary with unwavering strength and resilience in her fight against Melanoma cancer. Sharon passed peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, at the age of 68, surrounded by the love and warmth of family and friends.

Sharon was born on Sept. 4, 1955, to Norbert and Vivian Van Esch (Ableman) in Minneapolis. Throughout her life, Sharon touched the lives of many with her kindness, compassion, and loving spirit. She was a devoted mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend.

Sharon led a life full of rich experiences, traveling with friends in her younger years. Sharon graduated from Medford High School; after high school she worked for Northwestern Bell/Qwest, 20 + years, where she made many friends which she called family.

After Qwest, she spent the last decade of her life being a caregiver, which brought her the most purpose and joy in her life. Sharon was a caregiver to her core, selflessly giving to those around her. She drove clients to/from appointments, with R & S transport, later was a CNA at Koda Living Community and helped many in the community doing private care assistant work.

She loved spending time with her family and friends visiting and laughing, making thoughtful art pieces/projects, writing poems and one of her favorite things to do was shooting pool. Sharon's love for others enriched the lives of those around her, leaving cherished memories that will endure.

Sharon is survived by her daughter Marissa Van Esch; grandsons Ashton Licht and Braxton Van Esch; brother Ron (Norma) Van Esch; sister Toni (Kelly) Van Esch; many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. The void left by her physical absence will be deeply felt, but the memory of her singing birthday wishes, her thoughtful gift giving, cooking/baking with her grandsons, and her witty sense of humor will remain in our hearts.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical professionals and caregivers who played a vital role in Sharon's care.

Her unconditional love and unwavering spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. May Sharon rest in peace, free from pain, back in God’s hands and may her memory live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, at the Brick-Meger Funeral Home from 3:30-4:30 p.m. with a time to share memories of Sharon at 4:30 p.m.

For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.