Sharon Sobbry

TRAVERSE CITY — "God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts." After fighting ovarian cancer for three years, Sharon Marlene Sobbry, 66, died Tuesday evening, July 13, 2010, at Munson Hospice House. She died in the arms of her sisters, Bonnie, Shirlee and Terry. Sharon was born in Elk Rapids on Oct. 29, 1943, to Frank and Lena (Babe) Sobbry. Her growing-up years were spent with her family in Elk Rapids, where everyone knew her and her love of candy, popcorn and movies. There weren't many movies that she missed, with "cowboys" Roy Rogers and Gene Autry her favorites.Sharon began residence at the Community Living Center in Traverse City in 1984 and, after special training, began her working years at Goodwill Industries and Grand Traverse Industries. She enjoyed meeting people and always introduced herself as "Hi, my name Sharon Sobbry." Many people knew Sharon both through her work and the many social activities and trips provided by CLC.An unselfish soul without measure, Sharon defined the concept of unconditional love. She had a full, caring heart, and everyone who spent time with her felt the warmth of her smile. For Sharon, family was the greatest source of happiness in her life. She loved attending weddings, special occasions, bowling and ball games. In Sharon's last month of life, as tired as she was, she was still able to do all the things she loved — weekend camp at ARC, a trip to Michigan Adventure through CLC, and best of all, moving into Bonnie's house for the family's annual Cherry Festival celebration. She was known for her collection of stuffed animals (most recently her Zhu Zhu pets), gadgets, and her book collection of "O's." She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Melvina; brother, Francis; and nephew, Billy Huff. She leaves behind a large, loving family."Sharon, though your smile is gone forever, and your hands we cannot touch, still we have so many memories of you that we love so very much."Visitation will be held Sunday, July 18, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held Monday, July 19, at 2 p.m., also at the funeral home. The Rev. Judith Grimes will officiate.The family would like to acknowledge the loving care provided over the years by the Community Living Center (CLC). In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Sharon's memory to Community Living Center, 935 Barlow Street, Traverse City, Michigan, 49686.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City.