Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Matriarch Sharon Haase, 85

Sharon Haase, a cherished member of the Lake City community, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at the age of 85, after a courageous five-year battle with dementia. Haase was deeply loved by her husband, Jerome “Jerry” Haase, and her extensive family and friends, who surrounded her with warmth and affection throughout her life.

Born on January 26, 1940, to Orin and Verna Powers, Sharon’s faith was central to her life. She was baptized and confirmed, celebrating significant sacraments that laid the foundation for her spiritual journey. On January 19, 1957, she married Jerry at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in Lake City. The couple initially lived in Rochester before moving to Stewartville in 1967, where they raised their six children over a span of 38 years. In 2005, they returned to Lake City, spending their winters in Green Valley, Arizona.

Sharon dedicated herself to being a homemaker, always available for her children during their formative years. She fostered a welcoming environment, often opening her door to her children’s friends after school. Her commitment to her community was evident through her volunteer work at schools, attendance at school events, and even coaching sports teams.

Her passion extended beyond family; she thrived on creating beautiful flower gardens and was known for her exceptional cooking and baking. Sharon enjoyed entertaining friends and organizing memorable gatherings. She worked part-time as a florist at Donaldsons while in Rochester and later took on a role at J.C. Penney, where she assisted in the men’s department and holiday gift-wrapping.

In 1982, Sharon and Jerry launched The Flower Cellar, a business that allowed her to share her floral talents with the Stewartville community. After closing their shop, she continued her floral work at Himmer’s, contributing to the local floral and gift department.

Sharon was actively involved in various community initiatives, including the Friends of the Library and the Holiday Home Tours. As a member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, she taught religious education and participated in the Council of Catholic Women. After returning to Lake City, she became an active member of St. Mary’s C.C.W., where she helped organize Irish Dinners and worked at holiday bazaars, contributing significantly to fundraising efforts for the church.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry, and their children: Kelly Haase, Mitch Haase (Pam), Cara Grisim (Doug), Jason Haase, and daughter-in-law Ruth Ketterling Haase. Sharon also leaves behind numerous grandchildren—Amanda Wood, Josh Hasse (Liz), Justin Haase (Hallie), Mitchell Haase, Jr. (Kelsey), Emme Grisim Lopez (Celso), Rusty Grisim (Alexa), Alyssa Haase, Joseph Haase, and Emery Haase—and 15 great-grandchildren who filled her life with joy.

Sharon’s family circle includes her sister and brothers-in-law, Janelle & Denny Francis, Mary & Jim O’Brien, Joanne Landers, Kitty Lawrence, Steve & Julie Haase, and Liz Powers, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her two sons, Christopher Ray Haase and Randy Joseph Haase, her parents, three brothers, and several sisters and brothers-in-law.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on October 30 at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, with officiants including Father Thé Hoang, Father James Russell, and Father Richard Dernek. Burial will follow at 3:00 PM at Saint Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery in Stewartville. Family and friends are invited to visit one hour prior to the service at the church.

Arrangements have been made by Schleicher Funeral Homes, Lake City Chapel. A guest register is available online at www.schleicherfuneralhomes.com. Sharon Haase will be remembered for her unwavering faith, dedication to family, and lasting contributions to her community.