Sharon Ann Parker

In Loving Memory of Sharon Ann Parker (February 8, 1945 – May 2, 2026)

With immense grief and heartbreak, together with an even greater spirit of love, gratitude, and awe for the vibrant life she lived, we announce the sudden passing of Sharon Ann Parker, age 81, in the early morning hours of May 2, 2026.

Sharon was born on February 8, 1945, in Bakersfield, California, the youngest daughter of Roma and Ted Visser. Her early years were rooted in the grounded life of the family farm and dairy alongside her siblings, Raymond, Tony, Thressa, and Sandra. This rural upbringing instilled in her a fierce independence and an early thirst for adventure. From her earliest days, Sharon and Sandra shared a bond that was truly extraordinary. They were each other’s true north, partner in crime, best friend, and beloved sister, remaining deeply and profoundly connected throughout the entirety of their lives.

Reflecting on their beautiful bond and their early escapades, Sandra remembers her as:

"My Sister, My Friend. Always there when I needed her, anywhere she went I followed. My childhood would not have been complete without her always being there. Mom, Sharon, and I would go to Pismo Beach and spend hours playing in the ocean. Sharon would have such a terrible sunburn and Mom would put lotion on, but it didn’t help much. We would swim in the irrigation reservoir, climb trees and I always knew she was there, no matter what. Just the two of us, always."

Climbing trees and swimming in the irrigation reservoir were just the beginning. At the age of 12, Sharon, Sandra, and their mother, Roma, moved to Colorado to be closer to their extended family, opening a new chapter of exploration. It was in Colorado that Sharon met the love of her life, her husband, Patrick. Together, they built a life defined not only by warmth and deep mutual respect but by a shared, highly adventurous spirit. Their marriage was a thrilling partnership; they traveled, sought out new experiences, laughed often, and embraced the unknown with a radiant love that inspired everyone around them.

Above all else, Sharon was a fiercely devoted mother to her beloved sons, James, Loren, and Don. They were the absolute light of her life, and she poured her heart into cherishing every moment with them. She instilled her own boundless zest for life into her boys, teaching them to approach the world with open minds and courageous hearts. Her love and her spirited energy effortlessly expanded to include her daughter-in-law Cindy and cherished grandchildren—Jenna, Katelyn, Christina, and Christopher—as well as her nieces and nephews, all of whom held a uniquely special place in her heart.

Sharon was a woman who found profound beauty in the world's wonders, both simple and thrilling. While she possessed a highly adventurous soul—forever drawn to the vastness of the ocean, the freedom of all animals, and the bright warmth of the sunshine—she was equally grounded by her extraordinary capacity for kindness and compassion. She had a joyful, vibrant presence that lit up a room and a remarkably gentle spirit that made everyone she encountered feel uniquely loved, safe, and deeply cared for.

Sharon Ann Parker will be remembered for her endlessly loving heart, her fearless embrace of life's journeys, and the pure happiness she brought to this world. Her legacy will forever live on in the wild beauty of the ocean breeze, the warmth of the sun, and the boundless, adventurous love she gave so freely to the family and friends she cherished so deeply.

Interment: Foothills Garden of Memory 14241 North 107th Street, Longmont, CO 80504. Graveside service to be held on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers or cards, please consider contributing to your favorite charitable organization. Unconditional Love and compassion for all living creatures is life’s lesson we are all meant to embrace while here. Helping others in need is Sharon’s final request.