Sharon Stoffel

Sharon Stoffel, age 79, of Lakeland, MN passed away peacefully on June 20th, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on September 27, 1945, in Cloquet, Minnesota, Sharon lived a life filled with love, generosity, and joyful service to others.

She was the devoted wife of Thomas Stoffel, her loving partner of nearly 60 years. The two were married on July 10, 1965, and together built a life rich in family and community. Sharon was the proud mother of three sons - Timm (Roze Catapano), Todd (Molly), and Troy (Jodi) - and the adoring grandmother of eight grandchildren: Brady, Zack, Ellie, Samuel, Jacob, Austin, Connor and Emma. It was hard to find Sharon without her camera at the grandkids' numerous activities and sporting events.

Sharon had a long and meaningful career as an office administrator, working with dedication for the State of Minnesota and the Stillwater Area Schools. Her warmth and organization were valued by coworkers and the many students and families she served.

Alongside her husband, Sharon ran Stoffel's Shady Oaks Resort in Siren, Wisconsin for over 30 years. She took great joy in welcoming guests, catching up with returning families, and creating a place of rest and connection. She had a gift for conversation and could light up a room—or a phone call—with her infectious warmth.

A true giver at heart, Sharon was a lifelong volunteer, generously offering her time in her children’s schools and throughout the St. Croix Valley and Siren communities. She was also a remarkable blood donor, having donated over 45 gallons in her lifetime—a quiet but powerful legacy of saving lives.

Sharon had a creative spirit and delighted in making and giving handmade cards for all occasions. Every card reflected her thoughtfulness and her love for making others feel special. She also found joy in music, singing in her church choir for 25 years.

One of her favorite traditions was creating magical birthday moments for her grandchildren—carefully hiding a five-dollar bill for each year of their age among their birthday gifts. It was her special way of bringing laughter, surprises, and love to each celebration.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Betty (McKenna) Knutson. She is survived by her beloved husband, Tom; her sons Timm (Roze Catapano), Todd (Molly), and Troy (Jodi); her treasured grandchildren, and her sister Sandra (Marvin) Eckert and their two children.

Sharon will be remembered for her beautiful heart, her devotion to others, and her gift for making every person she met feel welcomed and loved. Her life was a reflection of the joy she gave so freely.

Funeral services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic church in Lake St. Croix Beach, MN on Tuesday, July 8th at 11:00AM with a visitation held one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation or the American Red Cross.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A special thank you to the Optage Hospice Team for the wonderful care.