Sharon K. Wolter

   


I was saddened to see Mrs. Wolter's obituary in the paper this morning. She was my 7th grade english teacher back in about 1982 at (then) North Junior High in Fort Dodge. She was a wonderful teacher-- it was one of my favorite classes. I remember how one of her favorite novels was S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders, and how she worried that when the movie came out, it would take away from the spirit of the book. She had us memorize the poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay", and I can still recite it to this day. We also read Jonathon Livingston Seagull. I think of that class often, and how she encouraged me to write. I am in a medical field now, but still have the dream of being a writer. My condolences to you-- she was a wonderful person, and I know she will be missed.

kim (stitt) shimkat
fort dodge
IA

Kristi, Buck and Carrie, This is a hard one to figure out. We can only imagine how difficult is must be for all of you. We kind of reconnected with Sharon several years ago and have continued to stay in touch. We always enjoyed her visits and looked forward to the next one. I last spoke to her about 6 weeks ago and knew her health wasn't great. Just know that you all were the most important things in her life. We know she was a great teacher. We remember when she was teaching at Whittier School in Sioux City...that's a long time ago. We will try to connect with you all when this is all over. We will continue to stay in touch with Jim, too. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Jack and Sherryl Jones

Jack and Sherryl Jones
Milford
IA

As you well know Sharon was very dear to us all, and even tough it is a very difficult time in your life, know that she is in good hands. We are so glad that we always kept in touch, she certainly will be miss. Still remember the first time she came out to the house for a simmple lunch, and while I was fixing the last details, she dissapeared for a few minutes, just to find her downstairs with both our kids (Stephanie and Andrew) reading them a book and having a good time. She was certainly a wonderful Mom, Grandma, Sister, Friend and Teacher. She will always be in our thoughts and prayers. Just rememver that her children, and grandchildren were her life and there was never a moment when the conversation did not include you all. All our love always.

Pat and Betty Smith and familiy
Urbana
IA

Carrie, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Kristen (Swanson) Evenhouse

Kristen (Swanson) Evenhouse
Holland
MI

To the family of Sharon we send sincere sympathy. We knew all of you as small children. Most importantly we were the best of friends while your mom was in Paullina High School; she was a classmate of Curt's. Sharon was my bridesmaid at our wedding in June of 1956. Sorry to say, our contact in the past years has been minimal; only if she returned for class reunions. Cherish the memories and time you were allowed to share with her; we will do the same. God's blessings and our love, Betty & Curt Rehder

Betty and Curtis Rehder
Primghar
IA

Mrs. Wolter was my 8th grade English teacher at North Jr. High. She was by far my most memorable teacher. I have reflected back to the time in her classroom many times as years have passed. Reading Jonathon Livingston Seagull, The Outsiders, her love for Neil Diamond, and much much more. Mrs. Wolter Definately had a positive impact on me that I take with me everyday. To the family, I am sorry for your loss, she was a wonderful woman.

Karry Auten
Buford
GA

Kristi, Buck and Carrie, Our sincere sympthy to you and your families. Your mother was a pillar of strength during difficult times and had a sincere passion for children. Her grandchildren were her life, she loved every minute spent with them. Cherish the memories and may God Bless you and your families. Gary and Bev Kisling

Bev Kisling
Urbana
IA

I had Mrs. Wolter as a 7th grade teacher at Phillips Middle School in Fort Dodge, Iowa. I wanted her family to know she made a difference in my life. Her passion for education was evident everyday. I remember we studied immigration, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty in great detail. She even had us write letters to a remarkable local immigrant - who ended up visiting our class. She made history real and sparked my life long interest in the topic. Thank you, Mrs. Wolter. My sincere condolences go out to her family and loved ones.

LeAnn Williams Heun
Rochester
MN

Dear Family, Only,time,family,friends,and good memories will ease the pain your feeling. Sharon voluteered at Community Heath Free Clinic and displayed great compassion for the poor that were in dire need of medical care. Each of us that got to know Sharon loved her and every so often mentioned we should call and see if she was ready to return so we were quite shocked to see the paper on Sunday. Again, our deepest sympathy to each of you. Community Health Free Clinic 947 14 th Ave SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.

Darlene Schmidt
Marion
IA

Carrie and family---please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I hope your many memories bring you peace and comfort to you in the days ahead.

Mark John Conley
Windsor Heights
IA

Kristy, Buck & Carrie: I was so sad to read about your mom. I have great memories of her & will always cherish them. Kristy, I remember how she was always happy to have me come over because I would clean your room. Growing up I felt like she was like a 2nd mom to me. Know that my prayers are with all of you at this time. God Bless you today & always

Sheryl Hilbert Campbell
Dakota Dunes
SD

Carrie and family---Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about your Mom's passing. We are here to support you in any way we can. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. With thoughts of peace and courage for you, Lisa, Jeremy and David

Lisa Rothenburg
Maple Grove
MN

Carrie, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I'm grateful that you've been able to be with your family in Iowa these past couple of weeks and had the opportunity to say goodbye to your mother. We're thinking of and praying for you back here in Seattle. Please let us know if there's anything you need. We're just a quick phone call away.

Angela Cherry
Seattle
WA

Carrie, I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. We are never ready to lose our moms. My prayers are witrh you. Sincerely,Wanda Coppens (transportation to wedding)

Wanda Coppens
Sac City
IA

I was sadden to hear of her passing. She was called home much sooner than she should have been. Our prayers go out to you and the family.

Mikel Reed
Kennesaw
GA

Sharon was my professor at Coe College. She was truly a wonderful teacher. It was obvious how passionate she was about education. I had the wonderful opportunity of getting to know her outside of class. I house sat for her on many occasions. She was a wonderful person and I will always cherish the time I spent with her!

Gina (Driscoll) Brummel
Williamsburg
IA

Kristi, Buck and Carrie We were so saddened when Erin called to tell us your mom had passed away. We have very fond memories of her...her wonderful wit and sense of humor!! She was a super teacher! She left you all too soon but I guess that isn't up to us to decide. Your memories will be what keeps her alive in your hearts!! You have our sympathy and prayers. Pat and Judy Reed

Judy Reed
Lehigh
IA

Weather conditions will keep me from being with you to tell Sharon 'good-by'. She had a great laugh, and shared so much of herself. God loves all of you, hugs, the old one

Gail Steffen
Marcus
IA

I am saddened to hear of Sharon's death. I have fond memories of her ... her contagious smile, her sense of humour, her laughter. My condolences to Cleo and Dick, Kristi, Buck and Carrie. Wendell Iverson Wassemaar The Netherlands

Wendell Iverson
Wassenaar
IA
NL

Dear Kristi, Carrie and Buck, I am saddened to hear of your mom's passing. I worked with Sharon at AEA 6 in Marshalltown. We enjoyed break time with Sharon as she was the best story teller and she liked to talk about good books. She was the first to read "Bridges of Madison Co". She instilled the love of reading in everyone. She was most proud of her twin granddaughters. On occasion we could talk her into traveling back to town when we had a special occasion to celebrate. Sincere Sympathy,

Bonnie Grimmius
Marshalltown
IA

Don Pothast
Waukon
IA

To Sharon Wolter Family: My name is Don Pothas, I was your Mothers' and grandchildrens' teacher during her Senior year at Paullina in 1954-1955. It was my first year of teaching as I was seperated from the Army that September. I had Sharon in some of my classes as I taught business education. Probably had her in Typing and Accounting. She also worked with me as a business editor for the monthly school paper "Paullina Panther" published by the "Paullina Times" as I was the sponsor. Also, she worked with me on the "Blue and White" which was a semester magazine done for the entire student body-grade thru high school. I am sure she made a honored teacher as she took education to heart. I taught for 37 years and went back to her 50th class reunion. Sharon was not in attendance and few had heard from her. May this give you a happy remembrance of Sharon and the same for those who hearts were touched by her dediction to education. My Condolinces to all. Don Pothast

Don Pothast
Waukon
IA

Kristi, Buck, & Carrie, We're so sorry to hear of your mother's death. She was a classmate of both of us at Paullina High School but she was my(Roverda Koehlmoos Cullison) best friend all thru high school and beyond...in each others wedding, my maid of honor 50 years ago on December 28 and long phone conversations thru the years. We even shared twin grand-daughters! She loved her family deeply and was always pleased to share all your accomplishments. Even today she is looking down on all of you with that big smile on her face knowing she did her job of "MOM" well - FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS!

Ron & Roverda Cullison
Paullina
IA

I was just asking a teacher friend if she had knowledge of Sharon's whereabouts and how she was doing and then 3 days later, I read the obituaries. Sadly, I now have my answer. She was my 7th grade Literature teacher at PMS and she was definitely my favorite teacher. I needed her more than I think either one of us had realized. As if 7th grade wasn't rough enough for a young girl, my parents had recently been divorced. Sharon's passion for reading and writing inspired me to express my feelings through writing and to "escape" them for a bit through reading. I am an avid reader to this day. I still have a letter she wrote me after she had read my autobiography. I felt as though she really cared deeply, not just for me but for all her students. I used to get it out and read it when I felt insecure or blue. The books we read have stayed w/ me and because of her, I read the book before the movie or skip the movie entirely! I got such a kick out of her love for Neil Diamond and think of her when I hear one of his songs. I am so sorry for your loss. I can imagine what a super mom and grandma she must have been to your family. She was one in a million. All teachers should have her passion and commitment. She has been deeply missed since leaving Fort Dodge and has left an impact on many young lives.

Katie (Degen) Coleman
Fort Dodge
IA

How very sad I am to read of Sharon's death. She was such a special part of my life while I lived in Ft. Dodge. She was my mentor and spitiual partner through many rough times. We shared many laughs and tears together. And you children were her life. God's grace and blessings to you. Pat Hagen

pat hagen
yankton
SD

To the family of Sharon My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I reconnected with cousin Sharon several years ago in Marshalltown and she shared her mother's photo album with me and had several pictures reproduced for me with included my father Sherman Iverson in his youth and our grandparents Iver and Marta Iverson.

Martha Iverson-Carpenter
Ames
IA

We were pleased to be Sharon's friends. Judy met Sharon through church. I was pleased to hire Sharon as my colleague at Coe College. Sharon played a vital role in establishing our middle school endorsement program at Coe. I know she was passionate about good teaching and serving the needs of adolescents. We will miss her friendliness and good cheer. Our prayers and wishes for peace to her family.

Roger Johanson and Judy Vopava
Lisbon
IA

Carrie and family . .. I was so sad and shocked to read of your mother's death. You have been in my thoughts and prayers every since I found out. I can't remember the last time she was here. It seems like the twins were about 5 years old. We always had such good times. She was such a dedicated teacher and made a big difference in lots of Fort Dodge students' lives. I know she was also a great Mom and Grandma. I want to hear from you and know about what took you to Seattle and what your Mom's health problems were. I am so sorry for your loss. Love, Karen

Karen Hilpipre
Fort Dodge
IA

To Sharon's family: I was shocked and saddened to see of Sharon's passing. I worked at AEA 6 several years ago when Sharon was there. I remember her talking about twin granddaughters. They were very special to her. I still have a magnet on my refrigerator that Sharon gave to me. It says 'mange tak' I don't remember what it meant but I enjoyed her so much. She had a good sense of humor. Her family was always foremost in her mind. That's what made her such a good teacher. My deepest sympathy to you all. Karen Westphal

Karen Westphal
Marshalltown
IA

Dear Friends: It is a great honor for Save the Children to be mentioned in the obituary of this wonderful person. It is easy to understand how beloved she was, how respected as an educator and student) she was, and her legacy is in the hearts of those she leaves behind. The video tells us about her love of those who were in her life and that she did indeed know how to share her smile and laughter. Her special love of children is also so obvious. All of us at Save the Children send condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Mrs. Wolter's family and friends.

Peg Blackburn
Westport
CT

To Sharon's Family: I worked with Sharon when she was at AEA 6 in Marshalltown. She was a wonderful and caring person and consultant. My condolences to all of you.

Mary Travillian
Marshalltown
IA

Dear Carrie and Family, I was so sad when my mom called and told me about your mom passing away. I know how close you were and always felt that you had the ultimate "mom-daughter" relationship. I remember your mom's great smile and amazing laugh....especially when we told her about all of our adventures. I shared the news with Amy T. and she remembers your mom as a lot like her favorite character Jonathan Livingston Seagull. She didn't settle for being average and soared to new heights. That's how she was as a teacher and what she instilled in her students. You are in our thoughts and prayers Cares Bears. Amy Billingsley and Amy Thatcher

Amy Billingsley
Denver
CO

My prayers are with all of Sharon's family. I worked with her when she was with AEA 6. Her sense of humor and love for books will be missed by many people.

Sandee Gavagan
Steamboat Rock
IA

Carrie - I just found out about your Mom and I am so very sorry for your loss. I am here for you if you need a shoulder to lean on, help with anything, someone to have a glass of wine with or whatever! My thoughts and prayers are with you, sweetie. Please take care. Love ya!

Rhonda Plimmer
Urbandale
IA

My sympathy to Sharon's family. I knew her through the Iowa Writing Project. She facilitated a class that I was in and then we facilitated a class together. I learned a lot from her and I have so many fond memories of her over the years. She had a positive impact on so many lives. Thanks for sharing the video tribute. It was a joy knowing her.

Bill McKenny
Mapleton
IA

I apologize for the lateness of this message. Sharon was instumental in assisting the staff at what was soon to be Regis Middle School become a family of middle school educators. One of the first things I did when I selected to be the principal at Regis was to contact Sharon. I knew her from my days as the principal at Springville. She was wonderful in educating the staff in the difference of being a K-8 teacher and a REAL MIDDLE SCHOOL teacher. I have not heard her name in so long. The prayers of the Regis staff are with her family. My deepest thanks will always go out to her. Sincerely, Rick Blackwell, Principal, Regis Middle School.

Rick Blackwell
Cedar Rapids
IA

Dear Buckley, Carrie, Kristy and Sharon's grandchildren and her sister Cleo, I am one of Sharon's older cousins, more than 10 years her senior, so I did not know her well until recently. But we discovered each other, and carried on a thriving correspondence, mostly email. We shared many interests in common. As I told her, "Chance made us cousins. Love made us friends." I share your sorrow. I treasure the beautiful Keepsake collage. Melva Henspeter

melva henspeter
Marshall
MN