Sharon J. Walker, 83

Sharon Joanne (Claude) Walker, age 83, of Birchwood Cottages passed away on Jan. 6, 2025 at Hillcrest Rehabilitation Center in Mankato.

A celebration of life will be held on Wed., Jan. 15 at Woodland Hills Funeral Home in Mankato with visitation at 1 p.m. and the memorial service to follow at 2 p.m., with Rev. Jerry David presiding. Arrangements by Woodland Hills Funeral Home of Mankato. www.woodlandhillsfh.com

Sharon was born Aug. 3, 1941, in Blue Earth, Minnesota to Frank and Nola (Lloyd) Claude. She attended Delavan public schools and graduated in 1959. Sharon was united in marriage to Maurice Walker on Sept. 26, 1959, Sharon and Maurice lived their married life in the Wells and Blue Earth area where they raised their four children. Sharon received her degree in Administrative Support from South Central Technical College in Albert Lea. She was employed as a medical receptionist for most of her career. Closer to retirement she was a para-professional at the Blue Earth High School. Sharon’s faith was important to her, and she was actively involved in church and enjoyed teaching Sunday School for many years. Her many interests included sewing, baking, cooking, and reading and she especially enjoyed spending time with her family. Sharon had a special interest in lighthouses. After retirement, Sharon and Maurice enjoyed traveling to the North Shore and East Coast exploring many lighthouses.

Sharon is survived by Jeff (Donna) Walker of Chanhassen, Jolene (Fred) Hennessey of Mankato, Janelle (Eric) Swanson of Eau Claire; and Joshua (Shari) Walker of Winnebago; with sixteen grandchildren Sarah, Andrew, Katie and John, Jennifer, Jaclanette, Ericka, Mariesa and Meraea, Jordan, Logan, Justin and Nicholas, Bethany, Liberty and Brytain. In addition, she was blessed with 12 great-grandchildren plus one due in March. Also survived by twin siblings Candice (Claude) Kleinbeck of Waconia, and Frank Claude Jr. of Edina.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice Walker; her parents, Frank and Nola Claude; infant son, Jamie; in-laws, Harold and Marie Walker; and sister, Shannon Claude.

Interment will be at Rice Lake Cemetery in Faribault County at a later date.