NYHOFF, Sharon
Posted: March 4th, 2022
Sharon Nyhoff
1940 – 2022
Mrs. Sharron Patricia (Eccleston) Nyhoff, beloved wife of the late Mr. William George Herman Nyhoff, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her children, on February 27, 2022, in Lethbridge, Alberta at the age of 81 years.
Born in Whitehaven, England in 1940, Sharron spent her early childhood years in England during WWII with her mom and younger brother while her father was stationed in Italy. These difficult years, often moving for safety reasons, instilled a strength and resilience in her she demonstrated throughout her life, overcoming any challenges, facing difficulties head on with the typical British stiff upper lip.
Sharron moved to Canada in 1945, first residing in Vancouver, BC with her grandparents after the war, then on to Nelson, BC for six years, followed by Regina, SK, before settling in Lethbridge, AB as a teenager, attending LCI, where she met the love of her life, George. Upon graduation, Sharron attended the Galt School of Nursing, accomplishing her lifelong goal of becoming a nurse and marrying George in her graduation year of 1961. Together, they raised four children, Darren Nyhoff, Susan (Nyhoff) Van Ree, Doug Nyhoff and Kevin Nyhoff.
Nursing was a passion first instilled in her after suffering rheumatic fever for a year as a child and being inspired by the nurse who cared for her. She worked as a nurse for several years until the birth of her fourth child and then again part-time later in life as a passion once her children were grown. She truly reflected the spirit of Florence Nightingale, selflessly caring for others in need throughout her life. Sharron was an active member of the Galt School of Nursing Alumni, earning a Lifetime Membership award for her outstanding contributions. Her passion for helping others included looking after her mom for many years as she battled through Alzheimer’s and facilitating a support group for families of Alzheimer’s patients.
Sharron and George were inseparable, working hard and sacrificing through the years to provide a good life for their children. They built a beautiful home, took their children on many adventures and later in life were fortunate to further indulge their love of travel, enjoying many wonderful trips around the world, always returning to share their experiences with family and friends. Their love for each other was deep and long lasting.
Sharron considered her children, grandchildren and most recently, great grandchild, her greatest pride in life. Family meant everything to Sharron, and she was often at the center of and organizer of family gatherings. Her cooking and baking skills were admired and appreciated by all, particularly her grandchildren who devoured her pies, cakes, cookies and Nanaimo bars with glee. Nothing made Sharron happier than gathering everyone and seeing others enjoying the food she provided, creating family memories in the process. Sharron will be sorely missed by all, but be remembered by family as a kind, generous and caring woman, with great tenacity and strength to overcome any challenges.
Second only to family, Sharron was immensely proud of her yard, working endlessly over the years with George to keep it looking immaculate. Rain, wind nor snow could keep her from the patio, admiring the beauty of their work and proudly sharing it with others through family gatherings. Her love of gardening extended to her and George leading a beautification and management effort of the Taber Health Centre courtyard for many years.
Spirituality was an important part of Sharron’s life. She and George were active members of the youth group at McKillop United Church in their early years together, where later she mentored young women, serving as a CGIT leader for many years.
Sharron is survived by her three sons Darren (Cindy) Nyhoff, Doug (Karen) Nyhoff and Kevin (Mairi) Nyhoff; son-in-law Ken Van Ree; grandchildren Kalie Van Ree, Braeden (Ingrid) Van Ree, Taylor (Brigid Jung) Nyhoff, Mason Nyhoff, Kennedy Nyhoff, Olivia Nyhoff and Asher Nyhoff; great grandchild Octavia Van Ree; along with her brother John Eccleston and sister Janice Pritchard.
Sharron was predeceased by her husband George Nyhoff; daughter Susan (Ken) Van Ree; and parents Jack Eccleston and Mary (nee Lister) Eccleston.
A private family Inurnment took place at Mountain View Cemetery, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.
Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the McKillop United Church Memorial Fund, 2329 15 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1K 0X5 (www.mckillopunited.ca).
Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.