Sharon L. Coley

Sharon L. Coley, born on the 4th of February 1956, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, profoundly touched the lives of many during her 69 years on this earth. She was a devoted wife, loving family member, loyal friend, and a cherished member of her community. Sharon's heart was always full of love for her family and friends, and her love was reciprocated in full measure. Guided by her deep-rooted faith, she lived a life that was a testament to the words from Proverbs 31:25-26, "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

Sharon's life was woven with threads of joy, love, and service. For about 50 years, she served as the organist at St. John Lutheran Church, filling the sanctuary with beautiful music that uplifted everyone's spirits. She was a lifelong member of this congregation and dedicated nine years to serving as the church secretary. Sharon also contributed her time and energy to the Lutheran Women in Mission, where her commitment and enthusiasm were highly valued. In her professional life, Sharon worked diligently as an Administrative Assistant at the Wisconsin Rapids Paper Mill until her retirement in 2014. Her hobbies, which included cooking, baking, polka dancing, and camping trips, brought joy not only to her but also to all those around her. Sharon's pies were legendary amongst her family, friends, and church community. She was also known to enjoy a winery tour and a good game of bowling.

Sharon is survived by her loving husband, William "Bill" Coley; her brother, Bruce (Sheryl) Behrend; her nephews, Bradley (Maggy) Behrend and their children Mia, Theo and Emma, Brandon (Colleen) Behrend and their daughter Ivy; her sister-in-law, Cindy (David) Tork; her brother-in-law, Frank Coley; her sister-in-law, Judy Coley; her step-daughter, Barbara (Bruce) Heath; her step-grandson, Marcus Wilcox and her best friend, Bonnie (Michael) Barrette. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Joanne Behrend; her sister-in-law, Jackie Coley; her brothers-in-law, Jerry and Tom Coley; and her mother-in-law, Cleo "Kiki" Coley.

The visitation will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 8:30 AM at St. John Lutheran Church, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. She will rest in peace by her family at St. John Lutheran Cemetery. Please join us to celebrate Sharon's beautiful life. We encourage you to share your cherished memories of Sharon and upload photos to her memorial page. These shared remembrances will offer comfort and keep her spirit alive in our hearts.
The family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to the staffs of Arborview Court Memory Care, St. Croix Hospice, and to Sharon’s dear friend Bonnie Barrette for the loving care they all gave Sharon and her family.