Sharon Rose Vander Valk

Sharon Rose Vander Valk, formerly known as Sharon Rose Hochstein, cherished the prairies and the mountains throughout her remarkable journey, which came to an end on September 30, 2023. Sharon was born on December 6, 1943, in Pincher Creek to her parents Edith (Toots) and Cyril Hochstein. As the sole daughter among four brothers, Gerald, Leonard, Alan, and Spencer, she grew up in a farming and ranching community, spending quality time at the family cottage in Waterton. In 1968, Sharon tied the knot with Pieter Vander Valk, and together they commenced their family life in Pincher Creek, where they balanced farming and teaching careers. In 1978, they relocated to Calgary, raising their family while still cherishing summer getaways in Waterton. Eventually, they retired to Pincher Creek in 2008.

Throughout her life, Sharon remained deeply rooted to her rural origins and held an immense affection for Waterton. She found utmost joy in traversing the backroads of the region, recounting stories of lineage and heritage to her children, and later on, her grandchildren. Sharon possessed exceptional bridge-playing skills, excelled at golf, and relished in voracious reading. Furthermore, she found great delight in watching home-improvement television shows. Engaging in stimulating conversations over a cup of coffee brought Sharon profound happiness. She embodied the true essence of prairie hospitality until her last breath, always warmly welcoming old and new friends, as well as family members from near and far. Sharon’s beloved husband, Pieter, their three children, Frank (Jill), Mieke, and Paul (Donna), along with their six grandchildren, Zoe, Jack, Noah, Jacob, Keenan, and Parker, survive her. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of many.

Per Sharon’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. A celebration of her extraordinary life will be organized at a later date. Instead of flowers, memorial contributions to the Kidney Foundation of Canada in Sharon’s honor would be deeply appreciated.