Sharon May Olson (née Sparrow)

April 30, 1956 - May 1, 2023

April 30, 1956 - May 1, 2023

Sharon passed away peacefully after a long, courageous fight on May 1, 2023 in Victoria, BC. Predeceased by her father Ward and mother Joan, she is survived by her loving husband Phil, daughters Kris (Mike) and Andy, granddaughters Angelina and Aidyn, and brother Joe (Sherry). She will be greatly missed by her large extended family as well as by countless friends across Canada and the US.

Sharon was born on April 30, 1956 in Victoria, BC. She attended Mt. Doug and after graduation, worked in geriatric nursing as an LPN. Her second career came as a Payroll Specialist with the Victoria Police Department where she worked for over 25 years. Sharon was a proud public servant who was very well respected and was fully dedicated to giving the absolute best to her workplace.

Sharon and Phil met in high school and started dating in 1973, and were married in a beautiful ceremony in 1976. Children followed in 1979 and 1981. In addition to juggling a full-time job and a busy household, Sharon ensured she did not miss a single sports game for the girls and could always be found cheering and scorekeeping from the sidelines.

When Sharon retired in 2011, she picked up a tennis racquet for the first time and now it was her time to athletically shine. Despite being vertically challenged (her words), she immersed herself in the game and became a pint-sized force on the tennis court. She was Past President of Viewpoint Tennis Club, Arizona and was also a dedicated member and volunteer of Langford Tennis and Mill Bay Tennis where she made many friends. If there’s any doubt that you can’t pick up a skill or sport later in life, let Sharon be your inspiration!

Sharon was involved in so many other pursuits and could often be found playing cards or dice with friends. She was always willing to lend a hand – whether it be volunteering at the Red Cedar Cafe to improve food security in Greater Victoria, or as an executive member of the various organizations she was part of. She touched everyone with her humour, generosity and kindness and was beloved by so many. Her passing is an indescribable loss for her family and friends and she will be greatly missed.

The family wish to thank the entire VIHA Palliative Care team who provided such compassionate support, allowing Sharon’s family to care for her in the comfort of her own home. Gratitude is also extended to the incredible team at the BC Cancer Clinic (in particular, Dr. Wong), as well as Sharon’s GP, Dr. Tim McKay – thank you to all those who were part of Sharon’s journey.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 2:00 pm, in the Sequoia Centre, at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.   The service will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sharon’s name may be made to the BC Cancer Foundation. Information can be found by clicking here.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

22 Responses

  1. Just returned home after being at Sharon’s celebration & farewell. So many wonderful stories. What a sweetheart. Ron & I thoroughly loved the service & the lighthearted message the speakers all spoke of. She surely was a treasure & will be missed dearly. Thinking of you all. Ron & Donna McDowell

  2. We have been blessed for many years with the friendship of Sharon and Phil. We remember with big smiles, the times that we spent together. We are thankful that her time of suffering has ended, but sorely miss her. Our fondest condolences to Phil and their family. ❤️❤️

  3. Our Condolences Phil and family.
    Although we haven’t met up in a while Sharon was an amazing person and will be missed by all.

  4. We were very sad to hear. Our love & prayers for her family.
    We remember cherished memories from yesteryear. From before life got complicated.
    From when the mainland relatives would visit the Island relatives & the love, warmth & fun times would be enjoyed by all. Sharon was there, loving, kind & always giggling with her adorable mischievous grin!
    Sharon you will be missed, our loss is heavens gain &
    we know there are many already sharing so much love with you. Thanks for being you.

  5. Sharon always treated people with respect and kindness. I worked with her some years ago and appreciated her warmth and good humour. Please accept my condolences on your loss.

  6. I’m so sorry to hear of Sharons passing. I have so many wonderful memories with Sharon. I grew up on the corner of North Dairy & Aldridge until the age of 12. My childhood years are filled with Sharon, we did Highland dancing together, played on Snake Rock, Mt Tolmie & all around the neibourhood. I remember going to watch Joe play ball at Carnarvon Park & always getting candy. We lost touch when I moved unfortunately but its interesting how alike our lives were. I married in 1974, had two daughters, went into nursing & have 2 grandchildren.
    My sincere condolences to your family. Sharon lives on in my heart.

  7. Phil and family.
    Sincere condolences on the passing of Sharon. May you find some comfort in knowing that others share your loss.
    Jim and Joan Arnold

  8. To Kris and the rest of the family, my heartfelt condolences. Sharon was lovely human who always made me feel welcome and appreciated, one of her many super powers. I had the pleasure of volunteering with her at the Red Cedar and watching her glow with pride at the ball diamond cheering on her power duo of daughters. She will be sadly missed by all but she leaves an amazing legacy of love, respect and accomplishment.

    Love,
    Ryan

  9. Dear Phil, Kris, Andie and Joe, I’m so deeply saddened to read of Sharon’s passing, please accept my deepest condolences, know you are all in my heart and prayers.
    Being friends from our teen years, we shared many happy times. Jobs Daughters and DeMolay gave us a common bond, some structure and a whole lot of fun.
    As young women, newly married, Sharon and I soon had families. Sharon and I spent countless nights and weekends together with the 4 kids while you guys curled two nights a week and bonspieled many weekends. It was really a great time.
    We all curled evening mixed league at JDF, us girls were more interested in socializing than curling, it was our big night out on the town!
    Over time, as often happens our families drifted apart, hey. life gets busy! But I will always cherish my time with you and Sharon. I treasure my memories of Sharon.
    My love to you all, Sue Cooper ( formerly Phair).

  10. Dear Phil and Family
    Rick and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time.
    We loved sharing special memories with you and Sharon on our trips to Victoria
    Sharon will be lovingly remembered for her warm smile and the beautiful person she was inside and out
    Thinking of you with lots of love at this sad time
    Mary Lou and Rick Eastman

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