Sharon Kay Schuster
January 06, 1952 - June 10, 2025
Obituary
DEERFIELD, Wis. - With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the beautiful life of Sharon Kay Schuster, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Agrace HospiceCare.
Born on January 6, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, Sharon was the cherished daughter of Woodrow and Amanda Cruise. From a young age, Sharon radiated warmth, creativity, and kindness-qualities that would go on to shape a lifetime full of love, laughter, and deep connection.
In 1971, Sharon married her soulmate, Dale F. Schuster. Over 54 wonderful years together, they built a life defined by devotion, adventure, and an unshakable bond. Their love was an inspiration to all who knew them, and their legacy lives on in the family and community they nurtured together.
Sharon had a remarkable gift for making every space feel like home. Her love for crafting and holiday decorating-especially Halloween and Christmas-brought magic and joy to those around her. Her Christmas tree was nothing short of a masterpiece, glowing with pride, love, and memories.
A talented cook and gracious host, Sharon loved gathering people around the table. That passion came to life in the two restaurants she and Dale owned, Sherry’s Kozy Kitchen in Deerfield and The Schuster’s Westside Inn in Columbus. These weren’t just places to eat-they were places where laughter echoed, friendships bloomed, and everyone felt like family. Sharon’s customers were not just patrons; they were welcomed guests at her extended table.
More than anything, Sharon treasured her family. She was a loving wife to Dale F. Schuster; a devoted mother to Kari (Tim) Bolger and Kristina O’Kane; and a proud grandmother to Ashlyn Bolger, Kennedy O’Kane, Meghan Bolger, Ellisyn O’Kane and Paige O’Kane. Her love for them was boundless, and her memory will live on in their hearts and stories forever.
Sharon is also lovingly remembered by her daughters, Kari (Tim) Bolger and Kristina O’Kane; her sister, Kay Kuse; and all her nieces and nephews that she held so dear. She is now joyfully reunited in peace with her loving husband, Dale F. Schuster; her parents, Woodrow and Amanda Cruise; and her siblings, Carol Kubina, Mike Cruise and Robert Cruise.
Sharon lived a life full of love, loyalty, generosity and joy. She had an extraordinary way of making people feel seen, valued and welcome. The sparkle she brought to everyday moments will continue to shine through all who were lucky enough to know her.
A celebration of Sharon and Dale’s wonderful life will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, with Todd McVey presiding. Food and fellowship to follow the service. A visitation will take place at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. A graveside service with military honors will take place at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Highway BB, Cottage Grove, at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Oregon
Funeral & Cremation Care
1150 Park St.
(608) 835-3515