Sharon Haase, an esteemed 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. Known for her deep faith and unwavering love for her family, she is survived by her husband of nearly 69 years, Jerome “Jerry” Haase, along with their six children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Born on January 26, 1940, to Orin and Verna Powers, Sharon was raised in a family that valued faith and community. She was baptized and confirmed, with these sacraments forming the foundation of her spiritual life. On January 19, 1957, she married Jerry at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in Lake City, marking the beginning of a partnership that would span nearly seven decades.
The couple raised their family in Stewartville, where they lived for 38 years. Sharon immersed herself in her role as a devoted homemaker, cherishing the moments spent with her children and their friends, who often gathered in her home after school. Sharon’s enthusiasm for community involvement was evident through her volunteer work at local schools and her role as a coach for youth sports teams.
Her passions extended beyond family life. Sharon had a flair for floral design, working part-time at Donaldsons in Rochester, and later co-founding The Flower Cellar in 1982, which served the Stewartville area. After closing the business, she continued her career in the floral and gift department at Himmer’s. Her creativity and hospitality were hallmarks of her personality, as she loved cooking, baking, and hosting memorable gatherings.
Sharon was deeply engaged in her community, participating in the Friends of the Library and contributing to various holiday home tours. She was an active member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, teaching religious education and serving in the Council of Catholic Women. Upon returning to Lake City, she continued her involvement with St. Mary’s C.C.W., where she organized fundraising events and enjoyed planning the beloved Irish Dinners with her husband.
The impact of Sharon’s life resonates with her family, which includes her children, Kelly Haase, Mitch Haase (Pam), Cara Grisim (Doug), Jason Haase, and daughter-in-law Ruth Ketterling Haase. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Amanda Wood, Josh Haase (Liz), Justin Haase (Hallie), Mitchell Haase Jr. (Kelsey), Emme Grisim Lopez (Celso), Rusty Grisim (Alexa), Alyssa Haase, Joseph Haase, and Emery Haase, along with 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.
In addition to her immediate family, Sharon is survived by her siblings and numerous nieces and nephews, who cherished her deeply. She was preceded in death by her two sons, Christopher Ray Haase and Randy Joseph Haase, as well as her parents and several siblings.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on October 30, 2025, at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church. The service will be officiated by Father Thé Hoang, Father James Russell, and Father Richard Dernek. Following the Mass, burial will take place at Saint Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery in Stewartville at 15:00. Family and friends are invited to visit one hour prior to the service.
Arrangements are being managed by Schleicher Funeral Homes, Lake City Chapel. A guest register is available online at www.schleicherfuneralhomes.com.
