Sharon Kaye Boschen died peacefully at home in Santa Rosa, surrounded by loved ones, on January 19, 2024. Sharon was born in Hastings, NE, to the Rev. Richard and Laura Fruehling on April 1, 1943. She was baptized by her father at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Glenvil, NE, where Sharon began grade school. As the family accepted different calls to ministry, Sharon attended a one-room country school in Plymouth County, IA, a large suburban grade school in Tucson, AZ, and came back to a one room country school (District #38, "Wallman School") in rural Pickrell, NE. Sharon was confirmed by her father at Zion Lutheran Church in Pickrell, NE.

She attended Beatrice High School and graduated in 1961, having been active in creative writing, drama, music, and student council. She went on to Hastings College, from which she graduated summa cum laude with majors in English and education. Sharon had a full ride to study for a Ph.D. in Middle English and Chaucer at the University of Arizona in Tucson; but life and her love for teaching and children intervened, and she returned to Nebraska to begin teaching kindergarten. Sharon made the move to Santa Rosa, CA in 1969. She began teaching kindergarten there at Lincoln Elementary. She also became active at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where she assisted with youth ministries, and sang in the choir, eventually serving twice as church council president.

In her first years at Bethlehem, she met John Boschen, whom she married in 1972. Together they had a daughter, Laura. Sharon went on to teach at various Santa Rosa elementary schools. She then completed a Master's in Education at SSU, and later a Master's in Education Administration at St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. Her final career was as principal at Mark West Elementary School from 1988-2002.

Additionally, Sharon served a term on the Santa Rosa City School Board in the 80's, and was active in many local organizations including Community Concerts, and volunteering at her local public television station, KRCB. Sharon also volunteered for Team in Training and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, speaking to thousands of people on multiple occasions. Later in life, Sharon took great pleasure in being a grandma, and enjoyed living at Spring Lake Village and participating in various boards on campus.

Sharon is survived by her daughter Laura (Kevin) Robinson, grandchildren Brayden and Grace Robinson, brothers Dr. Richard (Sandra) Fruehling, and Dr. James Fruehling. She is also survived by stepson John Boschen and his four daughters. Sharon was preceded in death by husband John Boschen, partner Francis Geddes, by her parents and an infant brother. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Santa Rosa, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Santa Rosa, CA.

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

Published by Beatrice Daily Sun on Feb. 3, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Sharon Boschen

Sponsored by Eggen & Lance Chapel - Santa Rosa.

8 Entries

Carol Blauvelt

January 24, 2025

Sharon welcomed me so warmly in 1969-70, a big sister to another Nebraska transplant. Finding someone whose father was my aunt's pastor while I was living 1500 miles west of our home state was really something and started our friendship. So many good times as roommates for a time, musicians together at Bethlehem, passionate about our new profession as teachers, sight-seers along California's coast, dear friends. I left to eventually move to the other coast, but we kept in touch, promising to see each other again sometime. But now it will be in the next world. Rest well, Sharon. [Ten trees have been planted by the Arbor Day Society (HQ in NE) to honor Sharon and her commitment to the well being of others.]

Fran Hansell

March 31, 2024

Sharon was a dear lady! I worked as a colleague of hers in MWUSD and as a fellow member at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Her optimism and magnetic smile will live on in many hearts. Her legacy is one of selfless service! My condolences to you Laura and your family!

Leslyn Dooley

February 13, 2024

Sharon was on of the best principles at Mark West School . My children loved her & I liked working with her as a classified aid .As a parent I loved her kind & caring relationship with all the children.She was strong , intelligent, caring . A beautiful lady . A treasure.
Condolences to the family .
Rest in sweet peace Sharon .

April Rossi

February 7, 2024

Laura and family, im so sorry for your huge loss, your mother was beautiful and had a huge funny sense of humor, God bless you all. Sincerely April Rossi

Carol hollenberg

February 3, 2024

Sharon was a bright light at Spring Lake Village. Warm and caring; she was a beautiful friend. She will leave her mark forever.

Dr Bobbi, Meghan, Mollye and Murphy

February 2, 2024

Sharon was one of the most kind and remarkable women I have known. A splendid educator, leader and all around wonderful person. Mark West was never the same once she left! To Laura and her family: heart felt condolences. Remember the good times, count all your blessings and remember your dreams.

Kelsey Bartley

February 1, 2024

I was so lucky as to have Mrs. Boschen as my principal at Mark West Elementary School in the 90s and early 2000s, and she was the kindest woman with the biggest heart. I remember her big smile and her hugs, she will forever be in my and my family´s hearts. Love to her family!

Denise Newkirk

February 1, 2024

Sharon was one of my heroes - one of the brightest and most loving people I've ever known. One was uplifted whenever she was in the room. I'll be ever grateful to have known her. My God bless you with his loving comfort.

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