Date: April 11th, 2020
Sharon Ann (Tofte) Taeger was born on January 8, 1943, to Albert and Esther (Lonning) Tofte in Webster, South Dakota. Sharon grew up on a farm and attended school in Wallace. She attended Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she received her Bachelor of Education in 1965. She would go on to teach in Minnesota, California, Washington, BC, Alberta, and the Yukon. She loved children and much of her teaching career was teaching Kindergarten. She was known for her creativity, story telling and love of music and art.
Sharon met David Taeger at Augsburg College and they were married on August 12, 1967 at the Lutheran Seminary where David graduated. His career in the ministry took them to Port Alberni, BC and it was there that their two children were born – Aaron (1971) and Andrea (1973). Moving to Stony Plain, AB (1976) when David became pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Sharon was very involved in teaching Sunday school, ELW, Learning Ministries, and Worship and Music committees within the ELCIC. Sharon was known for her energy, enthusiasm and willingness to help out whenever needed. From planning the children’s Christmas programs to helping to build a new church, she volunteered her time and talents happily. She played the piano and organ for church and enjoyed painting with watercolors. Anyone who knew Sharon, likely has a card or painting of hers. In 1996, Sharon & Dave moved to Whitehorse, Yukon when Dave became pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church and Sharon did substitute teaching and was very involved in church activities and Braeburn Camp. They enjoyed life in the North, met many wonderful people, and enjoyed the scenic views. After 19 years, they re-located (2015) to Camrose, AB to be closer to their children and grandchildren.
After being diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) in 2015, Sharon continued to live each day with the same energy and spirit – taking each day as it came and enjoying spending time with family and friends. When movement became difficult and her speech became poor, she would still light up when visitors dropped by and enjoyed hearing news from friends and family. Sharon touched the life of many and her life was enriched by her many friendships.
Sharon passed away on April 11, 2020. She was predeceased by her parents, and leaves to mourn, her loving husband of 52 years, Dave, children Aaron (Terina) Taeger and Andrea Taeger (Dan Wispinski) grandchildren Rebecca, Makayla, Hannah and Luke, and brother David Tofte (Donna) and sister Elaine (Steve) Sandberg.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Bethany Meadows for their care and compassion for the last two years.
Cremation has taken place and a small graveside service for family will be held at Valleyview Cemetery in Camrose. A memorial service will be held in Camrose at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Canadian Lutheran World Relief, Camrose Hospice, Trinity Lutheran Church (Whitehorse) Organ Restoration Fund, or Braeburn Camp Memorial Fund in Sharon’s name.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Sharon Taeger 2020..
Death notice for the town of: CAMROSE, Province: Alberta