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William Christopher Sharp

William Sharp Obituary

SHARP WILLIAM CHRISTOPHER William Christopher (Chris) Sharp, 35, passed away on Sunday August 15, 2004, from a motorcycle accident at the El Cajon Racetrack. Born in Kansas City, June 14, 1969, Chris spent his youth growing up in Colorado and Pleasanton, California before attending California State University, Chico. He was a celebrated member of the Theta Chi Fraternity and graduated in 1993. Following college, Chris moved to San Diego and has always remained close to beach, living in the Mission Beach, Point Loma and Sunset Cliffs communities. Chris married his wife, April Spiers Sharp, in 2000, and the couple celebrated their four-year wedding anniversary on August 12. Chris will forever be remembered for his natural charm and ability to bring laughter and joy to everyone he encountered. He had a unique passion for adventure and lived life to its fullest, acting on every opportunity to make the most of each day. Chris brought his infectious smile, endless energy, and usually a practical joke, everywhere he went in life. His compassion, integrity and total commitment to an "all or nothing" mentality found him frequently surrounded by new friendships with all those he encountered. Chris' love for life was larger than all those around him, and is truly an inspiration. Chris worked at TelePacific Communications for the past five years as a highly respected manager for the San Diego Sales region and as a top performer throughout his company. He exhibited a strong work ethic professionally, and true commitment to excellence in everything he did, but his life passion remained in the adventures and celebrations outside of work with his wife, family and friends. Always on the go, he was active in many sports and activities, including surfing, motorcycle riding, snowboarding, ice hockey, sailing, carpentry, and enjoyed a good bar-cycle and Bali Hai Mai Tais. Chris is survived by his wife April Spiers Sharp; his parents, Bill and Connie Sharp; his sister and brother-in-law, Kim and Rich Nessinger and nephews, Zachery and Joseph; Gwendolyn Scearce, grandmother; Ronald Spiers, father-in-law; Cynthia Spiers, mother-in-law, Lea and Hal Corbin, sister- and brother-in-law; and a large number of aunts, uncles, cousins and an abundance of life-long friends. A Memorial Service to celebrate his life is being held on Thursday, August 19, at 6:30 p.m. at Sunset Cliffs and Hill Streets, overlooking the ocean. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to "William Christopher Sharp" to establish a memorial bench at Sunset Cliffs. Donations can be sent to/deposited at any Wells Fargo Bank. Donations can also be sent to the Surfrider Foundation. Please sign the guest book at obituaries.uniontrib.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Aug. 19, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
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Steve Renard

October 25, 2004

Chris was like a brother to me and he will be sorley missed by me and my family. Chris was one of a kind and his memories will live on through us forever. From the play grounds in Pleasanton 29 years ago, to San Diego, Chris always set the pace. I can never replace a friend like Chris, I can only continue to share his excitiment for life and the memories that made knowing Chris so very special.

Brenda Abbott - Graham

October 10, 2004

There wasn't a single time that Chris Sharp didn't have a smile or a hug for me,(even when he was giving me a bad time about something or other.) I never saw Chris after college, but I remember him like we were there today. I feel very lucky right now to have been his friend. Those of you who knew Chris beyond our wonderful Chico days should feel lucky. We will all remember him forever.

Carmella George

September 16, 2004

I met Chris at a networking function and what I remember is his energy and zest for life. I will miss him.

Marcus Addison

September 8, 2004

I met him only once but have spoken about him many times to many people. My best wishes go to you April.

Scott Goold

September 8, 2004

We met when Chris and April were stuck in a chopper with us, heliskiing in NZ whilst on their honeymoon. That day was one of the greatest of my life and wouldn't have been so without Chris. We have always kept in contact and I visited them in San Diego and was touched by their hospitality. I never saw him without a smile or at least a grin and will always remember his enthusiasm and friendship. My thoughts are with April, the family and all of his friends. I will miss him dearly but always will be grateful to have known him and to have such wonderful memories.

Christy Kroha

August 31, 2004

Chris was a good friend of mine throughout our years at Chico. We met in a freshman art lab class and instantly became friends. He was pledging Theta Chi at the time, so I "helped" him with many projects as he was very busy with pledging. We then were neighbors our second year and spent alot of time hanging out, he was constanly calling for help with how to make whatever he wanted for dinner, I remember clearly being called to his apartment to help with a pot of boiling over hamburger helper and once to instruct him on how to make a baked potato. I moved to Vail right after we graduated and to this day, I give credit for that decision to Chris. Although he wanted to pursue more of a beach life in San Diego he encouraged me to do what I wanted to do and live a ski life in Vail. (in typical fashion, I am still here 11 years later) Chris was a great guy and although we had not been in touch for over 9 years, I was crushed to hear the news of his accident and just want April and Mr. and Mrs. Sharp to know what a special person and freind I thought he was. Take comfort right now in knowing how many people are here for you through this difficult time, and that Chris was loved by so many, we will all miss him dearly and think of his smile and laugh often.

With Sympathy, Christy Kroha

Gaylen Herfurth

August 30, 2004

A large group of Bill and Connie Sharp friends -- Chris's parents -- had a memorial service in Grass Valley, CA simulaneously with the one in San Diego. As we watched a spectacular sunset it was obvious that God was smiling that evening. Although I did not know Chris, I know he was loved deeply by his parents and they are loved deeply by many here in Grass Valley. It sounds like Chris "lived" his life to the fullest, making every moment count...I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around April, Bill, Connie, Kim and all those lives he touched and guide you and comfort you as you not only grieve but also celebrate the man he had become.

Yvette Billings

August 29, 2004

Are family were neighbors with the sharp family for many years in Pleaanton. I cant believe this has happened to them. We pray for you strengh and guidence to get you through this tradgedy. I know he will be loved and missed by many. Till you meet again..you are in our prayers

John McAllister

August 28, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with April and the family. I had the pleasure of meeting Chris on a few occasions in San Diego and here in Scotland. He was a great guy, and I was deeply saddened to hear the news of his passing.

Scott & Audra Hagen

August 26, 2004

It is such a difficult time for all of us, especially April. April know that Chris loved you so much! Chris had such an incredible ability to put a smile on everyones face. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten!

Chris Mannerino

August 26, 2004

I am crying as I write this, so please excuse my typing! Aptil, and Sharp family, Carmen and I both have felt what you are going through. Judging by the respose of Chris's passing, shows how muched he was loved and respeced. I will always remember his infectious smile and laugh We wamt to be there for you! Please contact us when your're ready. Your Cape May neighbors.



Chris, Carmen, and Jenna Mannerino

Erica & James Bartnick

August 25, 2004

Chris was a great friend to both of us and we are better people because of him. We are so thankful for all of our memories of the good times we shared. April, we are here for you...ALWAYS!

Wendy (Larson) Mulligan

August 24, 2004

Chris was my first boyfriend in highschool and I have so many wonderful memories of him. Although it has been years since I have seen Chris, he has and always will hold a special place in my heart. When I first heard the news, I was so sad. I felt grief for his family, his friends, and for his wife whom I have never even met. What an absolute tragedy. But during this past week, through the sadness, I have also smiled in his memory. Mostly, I remember his great sense of humor and how hard he used to make me laugh. He is special to all of us. For those close to Chris, you are all in my thoughts.

Mike Bendel

August 23, 2004

Just heard the very sad news from my parents, who used to work with Chris's mom, Connie, in the Bay Area. My deepest condolences to the family and friends Chris left behind.

Brian Middleton

August 23, 2004

Chris has been my nmentor for almost two years. I will deeply miss him and I would like to send my sympathy to April and the family.

Jill (Christensen/Lucero) Mitchell

August 23, 2004

Shock and disbelief are the emotions that hit me when I heard about Chris. It has been many years since I have talked with Chris but I still remember his infectious laugh and good nature. I knew Chris in high school and he will always remain in my memories as an adventurer and of having a great respect for others. Even in high school he was always one to be more kind than the other guys. This is truly a tragedy and my heart aches for your loss. God bless.

Marcia Cruz

August 23, 2004

Dear April and both families,



The short amount of time I've known you and Chris, and more recently your families, has created memories that I will forever cherish. While Chris didn't jump out of the airplane with us, or go through the Women's Defense class....I'm sure he would have if he could have!!! Listening to all of his friends assures me he would have tried all of the good things in life.



You have a friend for life and I am here if you need me.



Love always,

Laura Wright

August 23, 2004

I have such fond memories of Chris! His big smile, kind heart, and fabulous sense of humor! I feel lucky and fortunate that I was able to consider Chris my friend. We shared many fun times in high school and while at Chico State together... many at the Theta Chi house. Chris certainly knew how live and enjoy life. He will be missed by many.

Love,

August 23, 2004

Jill Giesick

August 22, 2004

Dear April and Family,



Bob, Katie and I were indeed saddened to hear about Chris. I know he will be deeply missed by you and those who knew him well. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.



Jill, Bob and Katie Giesick

Cape May Neighbors

Tracey (Taylor) Slezak

August 22, 2004

Although I have not been in touch with Chris for many years, my heart dropped when I learned of his death. He had such a free spirit and a way of making anyone and everyone feel happy. One of my fondest high school memories with Chris was ice skating and whipping each other around until we were bruised for at least a week!

The world will be a different place without you Chris, but it is better because of you.

My deepest condolences to the families and April.

Karin (Chismark) Currie

August 22, 2004

I am praying for Chris's peace and stength for all of his loved ones. Chris was a good friend of mine in high school, and the news of his death was and still is unbelieveable. I will continue praying and thinking fondly of Chris. God bless you. Love, Karin

Natalie (De Freitas) Walsh

August 21, 2004

Dear Family,



May god be with you during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you! April, please know that Chris will always watch over you, as he's your guardian angel. I know it's not easy. I, too, lost a loved one, (my second son(7-17-01,stillborn) and I know your pain. Be strong and remember the memories you shared together because memories last forever. -God Bless

Suzy Reily

August 21, 2004

Dear April and Family,



When I received a call from Kristen early Monday morning, I knew something horrible had happened. When she told me of Chris' tragic accident, I was left speechless. In the days that have passed, I think of Chris often. He touched me deeply. He always made me laugh but more importantly, I was touched by his compassion. His heart was so kind and good. I will miss Chris very much. I continue to prayer for you, April and my thoughts are with you and Chris' family and friends. I can only imagine the magnitude of your sorrow.



God Bless You.

Ed & Mardi Homer

August 21, 2004

April and Family

We want you to know how sorry we are for your loss of Chris. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Julie Henry (Harder)

August 21, 2004

The news of Chris' death paralyzed me...yet in the hours that followed the tragic news, my heart smiled in recalling all of the wonderful memories I have of such a special friend. Chris and I were great friends through highschool and college. I have fond memories of laughing, skiing and playing endless practical jokes on eachother. Chris and I were constantly trying to "one-up" eachother with peanut butter or eggs in the shoes. With many other dear friends, Chris and I shared some great times. Chris made it his personal mission to make my 21st birthday literally unforgettable (or should I say "forgettable")? I only wish I could have met the love of his life, April. I'd like to share part of a poem that was read at my Dad's funeral several months ago...."Although we cannot bear to lose you, we cannot ask you to stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands laid to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, that he only takes the best." There is no doubt that Chris was one of the best. May the passing of time and the comfort of fond memories bring some peace to the hearts of Chris' wife and family. Sincerely, Julie Harder

George Arthur

August 20, 2004

My thoughts are with Chris's family and he will be truely missed. I did not know him long, but I enjoyed his company every time.

Gwen Nichols

August 20, 2004

April & Family,

I am so very sorry for your loss. The very touching tribute to Chris in the paper gave a glimpse of how special he was to all of his family and friends. My family sends thoughts and prayers to you.

Gwen

Brian Isaac

August 20, 2004

To April and family,



My love, support, and prayers go out to you. Chris will be dearly missed by all that he touched. I am so honored to be his friend.



Brian

Jon Orbaugh

August 20, 2004

We will miss you Chris. Your memory will continue through our love and support for April and our companionship with all our common friends.

Beth & Gregg Scerni

August 20, 2004

It was a privelege to know and hang out with a person like Sharp. You'd always know when Sharp was around even without seeing him because of his contagious, bellowing laugh. I will miss that. He may be gone, but never forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers go out to April, both families, and all friends.

Leisa Butler

August 20, 2004

Chris wasn't just a co-worker, but a friend. I know he will be with us always; smiling and laughing. My heart goes out to April and his family.

scott thompson

August 20, 2004

Although I have only known Chris for a short time it’s very easy to see why he had so many people that deeply care for him. Chris will be greatly missed but his spirit will be carried in all of us.

Sterrin Bird

August 20, 2004

Chris' laugh, sparkle and genuine zest for life is a great loss..My thoughts and prayers are with you...

Kevin and Michelle Nichols

August 19, 2004

Kim and Family,



We are so sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in our prayers.

Karen Lynch

August 19, 2004

The news of Chris' passing has left our office stunned and deeply saddened. My first thoughts are for Bill, Connie, April, Kim and family. I know Chris is in the company of our Heavenly Father, leaving his loved ones behind. It is for them that I pray, for having such a wonderful son and husband ripped suddenly from your life is unbearable. May you all find solace in the knowledge that you will be re-united in God's kingdom, in God's time. Peace be with you.

Jack & Peg Hofeld

August 19, 2004

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Chris for their great loss.

Christelle Beauviche-Shoulder

August 19, 2004

May you find comfort and strength in your happy memories. May Chris' joyful spirit remain with us always. With deepest sympathy for his wife, his family and all his friends...

Marnie Concepcion

August 19, 2004

April and Family,



I pray that each day you will find strength through Chris' love and memory. Chris has touched many people in his life and his spirit will live in each of us forever.



My heart goes out to you and the family.

Jimmy Norton

August 19, 2004

My thoughts go out to the family. Fortunate are those who have had the honor to have fallen for his practical jokes

Francoise Sims

August 19, 2004

To the family may God truly bless and strengthen you all.

I Dedicate this poem to

you.

An Angel was called upon in heaven and was sent to us on earth, he was destined to effect peoples lives being chosen at birth,

With him he brought smiles and laughter, fun and many games, he showed us how to live life to the fullest,and never was ashamed,

He completed his earthly task, his job was well done, there was one more trip to take this being the last one, returning from where he came,

to continue his heavenly task, live, love and laugh is the only thing of us he would ask.



BY Francoise Sims

Mark Carey

August 19, 2004

I new Chris briefly through business. He always seemed to be a very passionate person. He will be missed.

My thoughts and prayers go out to April and his family.

Josh Mackenroth

August 19, 2004

I was there at the track that day as a fellow rider, and I prayed for Chris then and I continue to do so for his family now. I am so sorry for your loss - God bless you.

Rick Zitterman

August 19, 2004

It's the singer, not the song. You will be greatly missed, Chris.

Cliff & Joanne Renison

August 19, 2004

While walking through a PB crosswalk, we practically jumped out of our shoes when the vehicle at the light laid on the horn. I’ll never forget the smile on Chris Sharp’s face when we discovered that he had waited until we were directly in front of his truck to “say hello”. His endearing, mischievous sense of humor is only one of the qualities that will surely be missed by all; we lost one of the good guys. Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy goes out to April, family and friends.

Bob Herzog

August 19, 2004

Chris and the Sharp Family have been good friends for many, many years. My office, family and I were deeply sadden by this tragic news. Chris baby sat my son Chris many years ago. My heart goes out to Sharp family during this difficult time.



You are in our thoughts and prayers.



Bob Herzog

Kelly Hillman

August 19, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Tony Cuva

August 19, 2004

My deepest condolences go out to all of those whose paths merged with Chris. I am thankful and fortunate to know mine has.

Jaymee Jiao

August 19, 2004

Your laughter will be missed, your smile will not be forgotten, may you find solace in gods hands.

Chris Lasak

August 19, 2004

To his family and friends, I extend my condolences. Chris will be greatly missed by all! He was such a good person and he loved life. I will miss him a lot!



Quote (Song) "If you have to go, don't say goodbye/If you have to go, don't you cry/If you have to go, I will get by/Someday I'll follow you and see you on the other side"--Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins)

Lalita Nordquist

August 19, 2004

Chris brought laughter to many of us at TelePacific, including me. He was an easy-going and genuine person who was able to make "working" a fun thing to do. All those he worked with and ever touched will miss and remember him always....With my sincere most heartfelt condolences,



Lalita Nordquist

Paul Murray RN

August 19, 2004

Please...let compassion, integrity, total commitment, and an "all or nothing" mentality, be my guiding star. You never forget with whom you cried.

Respectfully,

Paul Murray RN

Jennifer Samples

August 19, 2004

Please know you are in my thoughts and prayer. Chris will truly be missed.

Justin Meinung

August 19, 2004

I have worked with Chris for 2 1/2yrs. It is an honor & pleasure to know a man like Chris. He will be deeply missed.

Jennifer J. Jones

August 19, 2004

I work for Marc C. Seward, who was one of Chris' good friends. Chris was a client of ours. Chris was probably one of the nicest people I have ever met. April and he were the "PERFECT" couple. He will be very much missed! April, my prayers are with you.

Susan Peterson

August 19, 2004

So sorry to hear of your loss. May your memories be your strength. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.

Gloria Spiers-Street

August 19, 2004

My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Aunt Gloria

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