Sharon L. Kannel

Sharon L. Kannel

67, died peacefully in her home on Monday, Dec. 24th surrounded by her family after an extended illness. She is survived by her husband, Bill Kannel. Bill and Sharon were high school sweethearts from Massillon Washington High School, and married in 1969. They enjoyed traveling together, deeply valued being with family, and loved spending time with friends. Bill and Sharon celebrated their 49th anniversary just a few days before her death. Sharon is also survived by her sister, Barb Steiert (Steve) currently of North Port, Fla., and preceded in death by her parents, George and Mary Belle Stauffer.

Sharon was a loving and devoted mom, survived by her two children, Brian Kannel (Amanda) of York, Pa., and Christine Galperin (Micheal) of Stow, Ohio; as well as six grandchildren, Kristia, Ethan, Paige, Josiah, Derek, and Micah. She deeply loved her kids and grandkids, sacrificing whenever and wherever possible to care for and support them. She and Bill spent hundreds of hours as spectators at the many activities of their children and later, their grandchildren. Sharon was also deeply devoted to her extended family, often acting as a point of connection for many within the family and caring for them as well.

Sharon worked for over 25 years at Whistler Plumbing and Heating in Massillon, finishing her career as the Secretary Treasurer of the company, where she was a much-loved fixture in the front office. In addition to spending time with family and friends, Sharon loved to play cards, travel, and watch Ohio State and Cleveland sports, especially the Cleveland Indians. In recent years she fought a hard and courageous battle with cancer following her diagnosis in 2010, spending time in both Philadelphia and New York City for treatment. Sharon loved Christmas, particularly Christmas Eve, so it was somewhat poetic for her to pass into the presence of Jesus on the afternoon of Christmas Eve.

Services will be held at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon on Monday, Dec. 31, 2018 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018 from 4-8 p.m. and 1 hour prior to the service. Donations can be made in Sharon's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Stjude.org/give. www.paquelet.com.

Paquelet Funeral Home, 330-833-3222