Sharon Lee Odenbaugh

Sharon Lee Odenbaugh (née Hostetler), 89, passed away peacefully at her Palm Desert home, surrounded by her family, on March 22, 2026. She was born on August 31, 1936, in Whittier, California, and was raised in Yucaipa.

Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose life was defined by her kindness, faith, and deep love for her family. She retired from the University of California, Riverside, and took great pride in her career. Above all, Sharon found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved.

She had a passion for cooking and found happiness in preparing meals for her family, especially during the holidays. Christmas held a special place in her heart, and she looked forward each year to gathering her loved ones together. Sharon was also a talented pianist and found comfort and expression through music. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she cherished her time spent at Southwest Church in La Quinta.

Sharon will be remembered for her incredibly kind and gentle spirit. She had a unique gift for seeing the best in everyone she met and made those around her feel loved, accepted, and valued. Her warmth and compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard Odenbaugh; her son, Kelly Odenbaugh; her parents, Roland and Fay Hostetler; and her brother, Duane Hostetler.

She is survived by her sons, Keith, Terry, and Kevin Odenbaugh; her cherished grandchildren, August, Cory, Dillon, Diego, Josilee, and Lea; and her great-granddaughter, Daisy, all of whom she loved deeply. Being a mother and grandmother was the role she treasured most in life.

Sharon’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.