Sharon Peeters

NILES, MI - Sharon was a dearly loved, generous and kind-hearted soul who was born on October 18, 1941 to Howard and Mildred Burns.  Her childhood was spent in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and she studied at Mount Mary University in Milwaukee where she earned a BS in Food & Nutrition, Dietetics.

After marrying Carl Gerard Peeters on June 15, 1963 in Milwaukee they moved to Niles where they have lived ever since. While her children were growing up she was a full-time mom and household systems administrator, lovingly caring for her three children and husband.  When all the kids were in highschool, she started a second career as the Business Manager of the SW MI Voluntary Action Center. For 30 years she was responsible for all finances and organizing the numerous fundraisers. She was a valued team member of the small staff that accomplished so much for the local communities. Sharon brought a calm, steady presence to all situations. She was a pleasant and up-beat person whose unwavering ability to smile brought happiness to everyone who interacted with her.

She was a lover of the arts and nature, supporting both with a lifetime of patronage. Conservation and the environment were important, and she purposely lived a life to minimize her footprint. She played the piano for the delight of her family and for personal enjoyment. The list of her clubs and activities includes: member and officer of Seepewa Reading Club, Girl Scout Leader, Cub Scout Leader, Niles Service League, 4H Future Promise Club Leader, horse show mom, long-time member of Westside Scrabble Group, Lifetime Friend of the Niles District Library, 25+ year member and officer of Niles Passing Book Club, student of Tai Chi, player of Mah Jongg (Chinese and American) and puzzle enthusiast (word and jigsaw).

She had a caring and generous heart, and could see the good in all people. She had a composed and balanced approach with great organizational skills that she put to use for everyone's benefit in all aspects of her life. She took a genuine interest in others’ activities, always encouraging them to further their paths in positive ways. She modeled compassion for others and nurtured it in her children, grandchildren, and everyone around her.

Though she was experiencing symptoms for a number of years, her illness was undiagnosed until less than 2 months ago. True to her independent nature, she chose to keep the details within her immediate family. Right up to the end, she accomplished her intention to face the diagnosis in a calm and straightforward way, mentally in charge and doing everything possible to help her family prepare.

She is survived by her brother, three sister-in-laws, three children, one daughter in-law, and four grandchildren.

In accordance with her wishes: her remains have been cremated and memorial donations may be made to: Niles (MI) District Library, Niles High School, or the Red Cross.

Arrangements were made by the Halbritter Wickens Funeral Home, 615 East Main Street in Niles.

Online condolences may be left at: halbritterwickens.com.