SHARON C. HOWE

Sharon Carol Howe, 85, of Watervliet, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 29, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Sharon was born on July 16, 1940, in Dumont, New Jersey, to William and Grace Cook. She grew to become the heart and foundation of her family—a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose love and generosity touched countless lives.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Howe, with whom she shared a beautiful life built on faith, family, and farming. Together they created a remarkable legacy that continues through the generations they nurtured. Sharon was also preceded in death by her parents, William and Grace Cook, and her brother, William “Bill” (Sharon) Cook.

Sharon is survived by her children, Kevin Hannan, Lori (Dane) Essig, and Chris Hannan; her grandchildren, Jakob, Kaleb (Kayla), Willie, McKrey, Katie, and Josh; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Aryssa, Cullin, Gracelyn, Isabella, Savannah, Hazel Grace, Finley, EmmaJune, Ayden, and Russell. She is also survived by her brother, Dave (Annalise) Cook and many nieces, nephews, and their children.

Known as the matriarch of the family, Sharon found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. She enjoyed cooking meals that brought family together, tending her flower gardens, searching for good deals, and never passing up something free. Family gatherings were among her favorite occasions, and she had a genuine passion for helping others whenever she could.

Sharon was also an avid genealogist whose dedication and curiosity led her to trace her family’s lineage back to the year 1568. She treasured family history and took pride in preserving those connections for future generations.

A one-of-a-kind woman with a generous heart, unwavering faith, and endless love for her family, Sharon leaves behind memories that will be cherished forever. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored and in the values she passed down through the generations.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.