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Leo Sharko Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Leo Sharko
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Timothy Sharko
November 7, 2023
Hey Dad,
It is hard to believe you have been gone for fifteen years. I think of you every day - and remember your wisdom, your kindness, and your sense of humor. You will be happy to know that Baka and Deda's home on North Thirteenth Street has been completely renovated. I saw the interior of the home while it was being remodeled last year. I remember the great Christmas 1949, 1950 and 1951 photographs at Baka and Deda's from your albums. It was magical to be back in the living room with the three large bay windows where so many family photographs were taken - Sharon's graduation from UWM, the 25th Wedding Anniversary of you and Mom, Deda's Birthday Party, Scott and Mary's Wedding. The former rooming house upstairs has been remodeled into an upper flat with skylights, a contemporary kitchen and bath, and a cathedral ceiling which is today an AirBnB. I still drive by Baka and Deda's when I am in Milwaukee reliving days of yore. Give Mom and Sharon a big hug ... I love you and I miss you Dad. Love, Tim
Sharon
June 3, 2015
Hey Dad,
Seventy one years ago the Allies invaded Normandy. This Saturday a group of vets from Milwaukee will take their Honor Flight to Washington DC. I'm going to the airport to welcome them. I really wish you could have gone on a flight, you and Tim would have had such a great time. Another thing I wish you could see is the D Day Museum in New Orleans. It's an extraordinary collection of artifacts from the Normandy campaign.
Sharon
December 26, 2014
Okay Dad, about the key incident on Christmas Eve, you came through with them on Christmas Day. Had great visit with the Bakers this week, missing you and Mom to round out the family joy.
Sharon Sharko
November 6, 2014
Missing you now more than ever, Dad. The shock of getting that first phone call, the early morning ride to St Luke are still burned in memory. Thank goodness there are other, better ones... sitting in the yard on your birthday watching meteors, the trip to Croatia, Friday nights at Baca's house. You were the best dad in the world.
Sharon
August 16, 2014
Thinking about you and your family more than ever these days. Last night I was with Lynda and cousin Barb. We were going through old family photos and sharing memories. (I still can't believe Baka was a smoker!) Miss you, lover you!
November 7, 2013
Hey Dad,
So much has been happening with your sister in the past weeks. One thing that is really good about it - the pictures of the "old days". Seeing you with your family and friends from the old neighborhood has given me a sense of how you came to be the wonderful husband and father that you will always be.
I miss you Dad, you are forever in my heart.....
Sharon
Timothy Sharko
November 7, 2013
Dad,
I went to Mass at St Vincent de Paul this morning on the fifth anniversary of your passing. It is a difficult day made beautiful by the abundant sunlight on a crisp fall day and knowing that Mom is with you. All my love, Tim
September 15, 2013
Happy anniversary, Dad. It's a cool and rainy day and the Packers are on. I imagine you would be having a brandy and sweet and watching the game while one of us did steak on the grill. Love you and miss you so much!
Sharon
Sharon Sharko
April 2, 2013
Our loss is your gain, Dad. Mom went to heaven last night and I am sure that you were very happy to see her. You must be proud of how well she handled the hospital and pain in her final days. And I know she is very, very happy to be with you again.
These are tough days for us, but we are happy for the two of you.
Love
Sharon
Sharon Sharko
January 14, 2013
Hey Dad:
You would have enjoyed the holidays this year with the Bakers and Teta Lorraine. International smorgasbord, a lot of laughing and a visit from Amy Joy. Real winter is here now and I cannot say I am a fan of it. And, I think of you a lot as I start preparations for the DUTAM concert.
Mom turns 85 in a few days and Lynda and Alex will be here this weekend to do an early celebration. I only wish you could be here too.
Love,
Sharon
TImothy Sharko
December 25, 2012
Dear Dad,
Christmas 2012 is here .... with the Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Matthias, a family open house on Sunday evening, an international brunch for Christmas Eve, and family dinner this afternoon. I know that you are here with us in spirit, and we remember the good times of Christmas past.
Love,
Tim
Timothy Sharko
November 7, 2012
Dear Dad,
We remember your passing four years ago. It is a cold and rainy Wednesday here in Chicago; however today we remember the good times. I remember the good times our family spent touring Wisconsin and America together; the Sunday rides in the station wagon to Devil's Lake, Madison and Green Bay, the summers up north at Little Spider Lake in Hayward, the trips to Washington D.C., New York and Colorado, and our wonderful three week tour of Croatia. I was blessed to have the opportunity to tour Paris and Normandy with you and Mom in 1998. Thank you and Mom for everything that you did to share the world with us.
With love,
Tim
Sharon
August 18, 2012
August is a month of Sharko birthdays and all of Milwaukee celebrated what would have been your 89th..... The Stars and Stripes Honor flight movie opened at Miller Park. Mom and Tim were in attendance and there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Dad, your service to our country was so remarkable. You are truly a member of the Greatest Generation.
Sharon Sharko
November 9, 2011
These are dark November days, much like the day we lost you. The recent Honor Flight and our upcoming Veterans' Day remind me of your life, as well as your passing. Dad, you had such a passion for life and for service. We love you and speak of you often.
Love,
Sharon
Timothy Sharko
November 7, 2011
Dear Dad,
It is hard to believe that three years have gone by since your passing. I miss your happy go lucky style and your wry outlook on life. We think of you often and we remember a life well lived.
Love,
Tim
Sharon Sharko
September 16, 2011
Even more thoughts:
It is love in the hearts of people....Debbie Taylor, UCFU
If there is something to be done to help, all you have to do is ask...with prayers, Jenny Z Milwaukee
Death cannot separate hearts that knew true love Gary J, GHS Staff
Leo was a good man who lived a life dedicated to doing good Gary W, Fond du Lac
To honor and remember....Jeanne and Family
I saw tge death notice in the paper and suddenly the number of years vanished. Many Saturday afternoons I remember our chats, Mrs. Sharko and I'll never forget my adventures with Sharon! Barb and Steve Z
We were saddened by the news of Leo's passing. He'll always be remembered by our family and our community. God bless all of you, now and always. John and Pricilla Rupena and Family, West Allis
Thoughts and Prayers With You! Helen K, Milwaukee
So sorry to hear about Leo's passing....Maureen and Jeff M
You havve my deepest sympathy. Leo is now free of pain and suffering. Joyce P, UCFU delegate emeritus
My prayers are with you. All my love, Aunt Grace
Sending my sympathy and prayers....Dorothy S, Sloga Lodge 1994
Wishing you peaceful moments with deepest sympathy Frank and Regina
Perpetual enrollment in the Golden Heart of Our Mother of Perpetual Help from Rosemary Geiger
Timothy Sharko
September 16, 2011
Dear Dad,
Today we celebrate your sixty-first anniversary of the wedding of Leo Sharko and Cecelia Keating. You looked fantastic in that white double breasted tuxedo, especially in the formal portraits at Marquette Studio. Mom was stunning, I remember she was so happy to have the orchids - flown in from Hawaii - for her bouquet. We remember the wonderful 25th, 35th, 40th and 50th wedding anniversary parties - and we miss you.
Love,
Tim
Sharon Sharko
September 15, 2011
More thoughts
Please know that others care - cousin Jerry, Wausau
Deepest sympathy to you Mary B, Madison
A donation has been made to your beloved Tamburitzans Mary B, New York City
Please know you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We were very sorry to hear about your loss. We will continue to keep you in our actions, words, activities...Love Always, Dan, Kris, Megan, Austin and Jacob K
Granting Leo perpetual membership in the Marianist Spiritual Alliace forever. Don and Glennie Lecocke
Good will be the eternal reward of your good works and your zeal....a gift in Leo's name to the Pallottine Fathers and Brothers Memorial Gift program. Counsins Wayne and Geri K, Milwaukee
Jesus is risen....St. Matthias Adult Religious Education Class
Know that your days will get brighter
Katie C, Oak Creek, DUTAM patron
God bless you, Cecelia Carrie, Hales Corners
Votive lights will burn for 60 days at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Misour, your dear friend, Helen D, Milwaukee
Perpetual Mass Enrollment in the Friars of the Atonement with deepest sympathy Janette K., Greendale
Sharon Sharko
September 14, 2011
More memories....
God bless you and your family. May the comfort of his love be yours in this time of sorrow. Marlyn, Allis Chalmers
What a blessing some people are to the world....... Cousin Jeanne
You have been dear friends to Don and I. You are in my prayers and thoughts. My deepest sympathy...Love, Diane C.
I am so sorry to hear of Leo's passing. Remembering all the good times we had makes it all the harder. But the good Lord knows what is best ad Leo is now free of all pain and suffering. May the Lord bless you and your family at this time. I will keep you all in my prayers. Pat W, Milwaukee, Allis Chalmers
Please know that caring thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with you. Neighbor Evelyn Bruss, Milwaukee
Thinking of all of you, Love and Prayers......Lorraine and the Pozayt Family
You are in our thoughts and prayers. All of God's blessings to you and your family Love Cousins Bud and Angie
Sharon Sharko
September 14, 2011
Still more...
God will southe your heart and quiuet your soul, remember the good times....Dorothy B Milwaukee
Caring thoughts are with you at this difficult time, Steve and Kathy S, CFU Lodge 392
We will always remember Leo as the strong, gregarious and loving man he was. Love and Peace...Cousins Richard and Karen
Bless you with strength and courage...CFU Lodge 1959 "Silver Strings"
Deepest sympathy....Love, Maka Greendale
We are remembering Leo with a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation which will plant trees in Leo's name....Jim and Ruth W...Milwaukee
My heart goes out to you at this time of sadness...I am so sorry about your Dad... Jan S, GHS Staff, Greendale
That which we cherish will never be gone...Barb B, SMA grad, Milwaukee
Sharon Sharko
September 13, 2011
Still more thoughts....
Thoughts from friends and family are with you as you go through this difficult time....Love and Prayers from your neighbor Helene T, Milwaukee
You are in our prayers....Cousin Mike K and family, Williamsburg VA
Heartfelt sympathy! Dorothy and Jeanne R, Brookfield
You are in my thoughts....Louise M, Milwaukee, Lodge 392
We celebrate Leo's life, we thank God for the many years of loving and living. We ask God to bless and heal all those so close to him. Thoughts and prayers are with you - we will miss him, too. Live in peace and peace will live in you. Donna and Rolan, Greendale, Miller
Losing a father leaves an overwhilming sadness in the heart. May each day fiind you one step closer to a place of gentle peace and warm remembering. Tom and Mary Beth G., Miller
You will always honor your dad in the way you live your life and in your heart with your lasting memories. Jim and Carol Jarosz and Family, Miller
May each special memory shine in your heart....Colette and Jerry S, Paddock Lake WI
Sharon Sharko
September 13, 2011
Even more thoughts and prayers
Let your heart not be troubled, peace I leave with you. Love Janice P, Neilsville WI
His presence will begin the healing in your soul as his love surrounds you with the comfort only he can give. The Mico Jaksic Family, Sacred Heart
Wising you the peace that passes understanding through the mercy of God who loves you and holds you near him in your sorrow. Mike and Kathy Pelto Milwaukee
Leo Sharko is perpetually enrolled in Masses from the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement - Graymore
You are in our hearts, our thoughts and our prayers. Neighbors Marilyn and Louie M, Milwaukee
The Croatian community will miss Leo very much. God bless and comfor you all! CFU Lodge "John Movrich" 993 Mukwonago
Our sympathy on your loss - it's been a long, hard road for your family...continue to take care of each other. Debby and Gregg W, Greendale, GHS staff
With sympathy and love,Cousin Harriet F
Thinking of your family. We always appreciated all that Leo did for fraternals. He WAS a great man. Mary and Tim D, KSKJ Slovenian Society
Sharon Sharko
September 13, 2011
More thoughts...
We had a lot of laughs at exercise class...Dad enjoyed talking to Leo and getting him to laugh. We are honored to have known him and you both will stay in our hearts forever....Mike and Debbie F from Heritage Square
In this moment of our greatest need others will be there to hel;p carry us through to brighter days...I'm here for you always Cathie M, Franklin
Uncle Lee is always in our thoughts and prayers and we hope that with each day a litte more sun shines through.
The Kirsch Family, Milwaukee
Leo contributed so much to our community life...he left an indelible mark. He will be missed and never forgotten....Matt and Deanna, Croatian Community
Heartfelt sympathy and understanding thoughts....with prayers and love, Sue T, Allis Chalmers
In friendship and caring at a time like this friends want to share the sorrow that you feel and let you know thier caring is warm and real...Greendale High School Staff
Sharon Sharko
September 13, 2011
More thoughts from others:
May Leo rest in peace, Love - Rosemary F, W. Allis
May God heal your heart as only he can with the peace of his promis and the comfort of his love - Dave and Colleen S., Franklin, United Lodges
Leo has been remeber in a Mass at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows....My thoughts and prayers are with you now. Your were both such a close couple...my love and deepest sympathy.... Fran Gryzkiewicz
To hallow the memory and bless the soul and to implore God's tender blessings, Leo is enrolleed in the Sacred Heart Spiritual Society...Joe and Kay Fabina, CFU
Sharon Sharko
September 13, 2011
Hey Dad:
Well, my "retirement" has officially begun and I have to admit, I am more cheerful when I get up at 6:30, not 5:30. It is very odd, though. Here I am at the same age you were when you found it necessary to retire from Miller. I miss the kids and the creating of lessons, but, well....there are some other possibilities.
Love you, miss you....Sharon
Sharon Sharko
August 11, 2011
Happy birthday, Dad. I walked at Mt. Olivet this morning and thought about how much you taught me. Words cannot express how much I miss you.
Love, Sharon
August 2, 2011
More thoughts from others....
Your dad must have been a very special person. Amy H
Your father will be missed by so many! Heidi S
Take comfort in your unemcumbered memories. Arlene K. GSD
We are enrolling Leo in the Sacred Heart Spiritual Society for a full year. Thomas & Louise Muehl and George Urbaniak, DUTAM patrons
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy. Jeanne W from Madison WI, DUTAM patron
I am sure there are millions of wonderful moments to remember. Above all, do not think of Leo as gone, because he will be forever in your hearts and he is free of all his earthly pains and in very good hands now. George, Olga and Christopher, Milwaukee
Forever is a place found deep within our hearts, Tom and Kathi Polzin, former GHS
Sharon Sharko
August 1, 2011
It's hard to understand a loss like this, but others are thinking of you, caring about you and wishing you comfort and peace. Michelle Kloth, retired GSD staff
Even in your sadness, may you find comfort in knowing the angels must be smiling because your loved one is among them now. Teta Lorraine
August 1, 2011
More thoughts from others
May memories comfort you in the loss of your father. With time all sorrows fade, but memories grow more dear - Mary Guendert, Greendale, GHS staff
He was your dad and he shaped who you are, gave you his love, taught you what he knew. You'll always honor him in the way you live your life and in your heart with lasting memories Barb LaSee, New Berlin, GHS staff
You must have had a wonderful father! M. E Conrad, Greendale, GHS staff
Warm thoughts and caring prayers and good memories are yours. Tari Garnaas, GHS staff
They know the deepest sorrow who have known the greatest joy - The Kirsch Family, Wauwatosa
Sharon Sharko
August 1, 2011
Some thoughts from others when you passed, Dad
May time and grief pass quickly - may memories last forever - Ellie B. New Berlin
My deepest sympathy to you - my prayers are with you - Rose M. Pook, Duquesne patron
May memories comfort you and bring you peace Jeanette Fiolich, Duquesne patron
Everyone we've loved is a gift to be treasured, a loss to be mourned and a part of our hearts forever - Terri Mutranowski and Family, GSD
Sharon Sharko
May 28, 2011
Hey Dad:
It's Memorial Day weekend and I am thinking of your WWII service. That was the bravest thing a person could do - leaving family and friends to go to a foreign land, fighting against a daunting enemy. And, yet, you and so many others did it without hesitation. As the WWII generation slowly leaves us, I want you to know that I will do all that I can to perpetuate the memory of your greatest generation.
Love,
Sharon
Sharon
March 29, 2011
Hey Dad,
Thanks for smiling down on us this past Sunday for the Tamburitzans concert. Decent weather - sunny but too cold for the walkins to work in their yards, great driving for the kids coming in from Pittsburgh, 50 (!) walkins and about 700 seats total. Not to mention a great show. I know you were smiling down on us as we enjoyed some really great dancing and the best music in recent years. Best of all, Alexandra helped me with it on Saturday and Sunday, so it felt like the family legacy was still moving.
I know Tim had a chat with you on the way to GHS so I will give him partial credit for an outstanding day. And, best of all, Mom was happy and perky, and is still pretty tired from the whole thing.
Love you and miss you!
Sharon
January 5, 2011
The holidays passed without you and we all missed having your laughter and wisdom at Christmas and New Year's.
Dad, I know you are with us and I want to let you know how much we think of you and miss you - even though we didn't post on this site during the holidays!
Love - Sharon
November 12, 2010
Dad, I missed you on Veterans' Day and I was saddened that my school didn't think to make an announcement for it.....apparently state testing seems more important.
I can't get the image from my mind of that cold November day when the Greendale Firing Squad gave the salute at your burial. I can't forget the faces of the active duty soldiers who escorted Mom to graveside.
You and your fellow WWII veterans are truly the Greatest Generation. I can only hope that my students can appreciate your sacrifices when I am working with them on WWII.
Love - Sharon
Alex Baker
November 11, 2010
Hi Grandpa,
Today is Vet's Day and I just wanted to thank you for serving our country. Your dedication to our country means so much to me and everyone else! I don't know what the world would be like today without your contribution in WWII. Everytime I think of you fighting over in Europe, away from your family I am dumbfounded by your bravery. I don't think I could ever emulate your courage. Thank you sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much Grandpa!!!!
Like Teta said on the seventh I performed with Selo again at TamFest. I danced in your honor because I knew it was your joy to see our love and passion for our heritage to be passed down. I had a great weekend at TamFest, always thinking of you and knowing how much you would have enjoyed the music and the dancing.
I miss you soooooooo much Grandpa! Everyday since you've passed seems like a century! I can't believe it's only been two years since you passed, it seems like eternity. Everyday I think of how much more time I have to live without you. I wish you could be here with me every moment of my life, but I know that it is literally impossible, even though you are always here in spirit. I know you are happy in Heaven, you were such a great man so I know for sure that God is treating you the best! I can't wait for the day that I can be with you once again. I live every day of my life to the fullest, living it for you.
I've encountered some rough spots in my life, but I know you are always by my side. That's makes facing them so much easier because I know you will always help me out when I need.
I'm still dancing and working toward my dream, you know what I'm talking about ;)
Thank you for everything you have done in my life. You are my role model and I try to life my life the way you did, kind and respectful to everyone. I don't know how to ever thank you, but know my thanks comes from the bottom of my heart, especially today, Vet's Day.
All day today my mind was on you at school, wishing you could be here so I could call you and thank you for your service like I always did. But I guess this is going to have to do until I can get to your grave.
Thanks again Grandpa, from the bottom of my heart. With all my love! Missing you every day!
~Alex
November 7, 2010
Love you, Dad! Miss you more than ever. Just wanted you to know that Alexandra dedicated her dance at Tamfest to you today.....Na te mislim!
Timothy Sharko
November 6, 2010
Dear Dad,
Tomorrow marks the second anniversary of your passing and I just wanted to tell you how much I miss you and your 'happy go lucky' style.
I am taking Mom to Mass at St. Matthias this afternoon. Tomorrow we will drop by the cemetery to visit you. Mom and I are planning to attend the Sacred Heart Fall Bazaar Dinner afterwards.
I remember how much you enjoyed going to the Fall Bazaar and the Pre-Lenten Festivals at Sacred Heart. It was your chance for sarma and chicken with all the traditional Croatian fixings. It was also an opportunity to visit with your friends from 'back in the day' at Seventh and Galena downtown. And of course, it was always 'Miller Time' at these events.
Mike and Chris will be joining us and Larry and Millie are planning to be there as well. Aunt Lorraine will be selling dinner tickets. Hopefully your friend from the brewery, John, is able to attend.
We remember the good times.
Love,
Tim
Sharon Sharko
September 17, 2010
Hey Dad,
Spent your 60th with Mom last night - a little cake and some great memories. She is coping as best she can and thinking of you always. We are all thinking of you, perhaps with a tear in our eye...
In class today I talked about D Day and we watched a scene from a movie about Ike. It used a part of his diary where he describes the bravery of the troops in the European theater and states that we "shall never see the like of these men again." Monday we will see a clip from Private Ryan. From the beachhead to the scattering of replacement troops, I will be thinking of you the entire time. I can't begin to tell you how much you influenced me and my teaching. Your memories of the war were so vivid - they taught me about honor and service and sacrifice. You, like so many other WWII veterans left the war - no whimpering about any hardships - and lived life to the fullest. You married and found a good job. You bought a home and gave your kids the best education possible. You cared for your aging parents and found long lost family in Europe.
Most important,you taught us that we should stand for what is right, not what is convenient You taught us that doing well is reward enough Dad, you embraced everything life threw at you, and even in your final illness you had a sense of humor and a sense of dignity. I am pretty sure that you, and David and Dale are keeping an eye out for all of us down here
Sharon
September 16, 2010
Dear Mr.Sharko
I know it has been almost two years since you went to heaven. We all miss you so very much. We miss your sense of humor, the way you were such a great story teller, your wonderful smile.
So today I smile remembering the last wedding anniversary celebration I was at for you and Cissy Mom. I know you are in a better place, probably toasting your beautiful wife on what would have been your 60th wedding anniversary. Your family misses you more than words can say--and so do your friends. So smile down on us and help us to remember all the good times and all of your love. You are one in a million.
Love,
Carol
Timothy Sharko
September 15, 2010
Dear Dad,
I am thinking of you and Mom this evening as we celebrate your 60th Wedding Anniversary tomorrow - 16 September 1950 to 16 September 2010.
I remember the anniversary celebrations across the years. We had a wonderful party at St. Matthias for your 25th Anniversary - the Rukavina Brothers tamburitza orchestra and Sharon with her two dates, Bill and Dennis. And of course we danced the Alley Cat.
You and Mom received the blessing from Fr. John at Mass for your 35th followed by a party with the relatives at home. I believe we ordered Ingrillis pizza.
After Mass on your 40th Anniversary we went out to The Golden Mast on Lake Okauchee for lunch. That was the first Anniversary party Jack attended - remember how he told Mom we bought you a puppy because Mala passed away that spring. Mom really thought we had a real live Sheltie in the box.
This summer we all watched the 50th Anniversary video that Mr. Baraga photographed. It was a beautiful Mass at St. Matthias Parish, Alexandra was so happy she could sit in the front row next to Grandma and Grandpa. When Mom, you, Alexandra and I took the gifts up at the Offertory, Alexandra took the large glass bowl with the hosts and said "I'm a big girl, I won't drop this Grandpa."
The hall at Sacred Heart was filled with friends and family for the reception. It was a fitting remembrance of the first time you met Mom with Kathy at the old Sacred Heart Hall on Seventh and Galena.
As always the food was fabulous and I forgot that the banjo and bass trio provided dinner music. They were a riot!
There are a lot of great family photos. At the end of the video we were singing "Mid swamps and Alligators" in memory of Mom's Grandpa Merklein.
As I watched the video, it was so good to hear your voice again, to witness your "happy go lucky" style and to remember the good times.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad,
I love you and miss you Dad,
Take care, Tim
Alex Baker
August 11, 2010
Hey Grandpa,
So today would have been your 87th birthday. Wow!!!! If you were here I would have found a way to Wisconsin to visit you and celebrate with you. We could have found a yummy glueten free cake and I would have sung "Happy Birthday" to you. Then, we could have done whatever you wanted.
You meant a lot to me and you still do. You are my role model and I miss you soooooooooo much! Its hard to believe its getting close to 2 years. Time goes by so slow now that you aren't here.
Tomorrow I'm heading up to Milwaukee. Grandma and I are going to spend a lot of time together and talk about her past so I can learn all the family's stories. That's what I regret the most about you. That I wasn't old enough to appreciate your part in history. Moustie knows a lot, but it's not the same as it would have been hearing it from you.
A lot has been happening recently. I just finished up with Irish Fest, I wish you could have been there. But you are always with me in spirit, watching whatever I do.
One of my favorite memories of you is celebrating your last birthday. We were at Heritage Square in that conference room. Grandma, Teta, Moustie, Mom, your sister, Gary, and I were all there. We actually found a yummy glueten free cake. A miracle! Haha.
So now I'll go. I will go visit you this weekend when I'm not at my competitions. It'll be hard but I know you want me to happy, so I will try my hardest.
I LOVE YOU SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH! AND I MISS YOU SOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH TOO! Everyday I wish you could be here with me so I could share all the special moments with you. But I'll never have my wish granted. So take care Grandpa. I know you are in good hands everyday and you are keeping a watchful eye out all the time for everybody, because thats the kind of guy you were.
Good night, Granpda! I'll be watching the shower tonight and thinking of you all the while. Love you!
August 10, 2010
Happy birthday Dad. I will never forget all those August 11ths that we sat in the back yard watching the shooting stars....now you are with those shooting stars and I will never forget the love you showed us! Sharon
Timothy Sharko
August 9, 2010
Dear Dad,
I just wanted to stop by for a minute and wish you a Happy 87th Birthday. I remember the surprise 50th birthday party that we had for you many years ago. You walked down to the basement thinking that you were getting something for Mom and over 30 people shouted surprise! That was a wonderful evening. I will drop by to see you in Milwaukee on Wednesday.
With all my love,
Tim
With all my love, I miss you,Tim
Timothy Sharko
November 7, 2009
Dear Dad,
It is hard to believe that you have been gone for one year as of today. This morning we are having a Mass said for you at Sacred Heart Croatian Catholic Parish by Fr. Paul.
We miss you and love you always .... Tim
September 16, 2009
59 years ago today Leo Sharko married Cecelia Keating. For 58 of those years they maintained a wonderful relationship - complementing, and complimenting each other in every way. Dad was a strong role model; he taught us to work for peace and justice and he was the epitome of the work ethic. A proud WWII veteran, he infused our family values with love and service to country. We miss you, Stari.
Sharon Sharko
June 18, 2009
So many people have shared their thoughts about my dad - this is from Peter in Chicago:
I was very sorry to read about the passing of your father. That's very sad to hear and I am very sorry for you. It sounds like you two had quite a bond sharing your love of the Tamburitzans and working hard to put on these shows. Thanks to you and to him. His memory lives on every time the Tamburitzans play in Milwaukee. And, more importantly, when you look around and see all the smiles on people's faces, you know how proud and happy your father is up above looking down. I have a similar bond with my parents - we all love this music. The music is in all our blood. I hope the next generation will support it. I look forward to honoring your dad at the concert.
Dennis Jaeger
February 26, 2009
American Legion,vet,fellow--mourn Leo's passing...
Richard & Karen Merklein
February 19, 2009
Our memories of Leo will always be of a
devoted, vibrant man who loved his wife and
family, and worked hard to support the
important facets of his life, especially the
United CFU Lodges and its benevolences.
Olivier Cothereau
January 2, 2009
Dear Tim,
We are very sorry to hear of the death of your father and our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
If my memory is correct this sad moment happened when people all over the world where hoping to celebrate a brand new future and hope for your country.
I cannot avoid thinking about a great man leaving when another great one arrives, and I will make sure to stop for a prayer at the "Arc de triomphe" on the grave of the "soldat inconnu", during my next visit in Paris.
As you may know, it is the place where the french nation honours the heroes who fought for its freedom and I have no doubt your father has his place there.
We send our sincere condolences and are thinking of you and your family at this very sad time.
Mary Nelson
December 6, 2008
Aunt Cis, Sharon, Tim, Lynda, Jack & Alex
Uncle Leo will live in our hearts & prayers always.
Love
Scott, Mary & Melissa
Gregory Panhans
November 30, 2008
Leo was a great bowling partner.My greatest memories were when we bowled in the CFU league. After bowling, we would go to the bar and he would tell us some of his war experiences.
Govi Warrier
November 30, 2008
Tim was very close to his dad. I feel his pain on the loss of his dad, who was a true role model.My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Barb Robinson
November 25, 2008
Aunt Cis, Sharon, Tim, Lynda, Jack and Alex,
Uncle Leo left behind thousands of special moments that we will all remember and they will live in our hearts forever. I will be thinking of you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Barb
Nicole, John, Bryson & Sadie Galbreath
November 24, 2008
Uncle Leo is up in heaven and I am sure my Grandma (his sister) was waiting for him at the gate. As for the rest of us still here on earth, it doesn't hurt having another angel looking over us!
God saw you getting tired
and a cure was not meant to be,
So he put his arms around you
and whispered "Come to Me".
With tearful eyes we watched you,
as we saw you pass away.
Although we loved you deeply,
we could not make you stay.
Your Golden Heart stopped beating,
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best.
Dennis Miles
November 16, 2008
It was always possible with Leo to know that you were in the presence of a great person. He was always in charge of himself, and it was always done with grace and generosity toward others.
I am sure that his skill and grace with others came from the many challenges he learned to face. As the son of immigrants he became the best of two worlds:
Leo was the best Croatian and the best American.
His unselfish service to country in combat tested him, and he came out of it stronger and with a balanced view of life
that kept service to others at the center of his life.
He was always fun, with a ready sense of humor and a story to tell. And the stories were always interesting. This made life more interesting for the many people he enjoyed being with in the fraternal organizations, for the Tamburitzans, and for his many lifelong friends.
Leo's was a life well lived, and there is no greater gift from God to man, no greater blessing.
Europe October 1945
November 16, 2008
Lake Michigan Cruise Summer 1949
November 16, 2008
Memorial Day 1949
November 16, 2008
Lake Michigan Summer 2004
November 16, 2008
Duquesne University Tamburitzans Concert 2002
November 16, 2008
Fourth of July 2007 Freistadt WI
November 16, 2008
Easter 2002
November 16, 2008
It's Miller Time Summer 2004
November 16, 2008
Greendale High School Veterans Project
November 16, 2008
UCFU Lodges Thank You to Leo 2004
November 16, 2008
John Litchfield
November 14, 2008
He was nice! My wife and I have attended the Tamburitzan performance for years. We enjoy sitting in the center seats of the first row...to be engulfed by the energy of the dance. Leo always saved those seats for us and that was nice of him. I'd like to think that Leo is now seated first row center...he deserves it!
Bud & Angie Zeisberger
November 13, 2008
Leo will certainly be missed. He served is family, friends, community and country well. We will remember him as a great man who accomplished much and helped so many.
Eric Taylor
November 12, 2008
I am very sorry for your loss. Best wishes during this difficult time. May your dad rest in peace and look over your families with a smile.
Mary Banerian
November 12, 2008
I was saddened by Leo's passing, as I know all his family dearly loved him and wanted to enjoy his presence indefinitely. They will all miss him but he sure got a great send off to the heavens.
Alex Baker
November 12, 2008
My Grandpa was known for his bravery, strenght, kind, loving, sometimes sassy, and the ladies man charachter.
My Grandpa served in WWII. He showed a lot of bravery and strength for others. During his serving time he received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.
When he came home from World War 2 he began working for Miller Beer. He loved that place and their beer.
My Grandpa always took pride in his work with the Croatian cultural events, especially Duquense. For a really long time my Grandpa sold tickets and ran the show. He always made sure his customers were happy with the arrangements. He loved the Duquense shows, especially the finales, his favorites. He realized how hard the students worked and how they put the last of their energy and effort into the finale to end with a bang.
My Grandpa always made time for others even during the time when he sold Duquense tickets, the busiest time of the year for him. He listened to others and encouraged them to shoot for their dreams. When I told him that I wanted to try to get into Duquense and be part of the shows he told me, "Go for it, and don't let no one stop you. I'll always be there for you. Don't stop until you reach your dream or until it isn't your dream anymore." I told him okay and I would do it for him.
My Grandpa was my inspiration and my hero. He showed so much bravery and effort all the time. He went to WWII to help others get their life back and stop the Nazis from taking it from them. He's my hero because of all that he's done and gone through.
I will always remember my Grandpa forever as amazing. He will be greatly missed by friends, family, and people from the Croatian community.
I love you Grandpa and I miss you.
Michael & Nancy Yugo Kuharski
November 12, 2008
The "stari lav" has always been for us an iconic example of the Croatian-American gentleman, one hundred percent of each. Strong, gentle, lit by steady inner fires...
Sharon Sharko
November 12, 2008
My Dad was the most amazing man, but if you are reading his guestbook, you probably know that. He taught me how to read when I was about 4 years old, let me stay up late on Fridays to watch old WWII shows and, in general, he was the perfect role model. Leo combined humor, patience and a work ethic that knew no bounds. He was especially proud of his relationship with the Duquesne Tamburitzans and worked so hard to promote them in our community.
We were especially proud that Dad's internment was graced by the American Legion Honor Guard. On a cold November day, their ceremony was the perfect finale for a life well lived by a member of the Greatest Generation.
Serina Chavez
November 11, 2008
I Am So Sorry for Your Loss, You Have My Deepest Sympathy.
Mark Peters
November 11, 2008
Tim and Family,
I didn't know your dad, but seeing how he raised Tim I know he must have been all right! My deepest sympathies on your loss.
Margaret Thomas
November 11, 2008
Just a wonderful story to honor Mr. Sharko:
The Water Bug Story
Down below the surface of a quiet pond lived a little colony of water bugs. They were a happy colony, living far away from the sun. For many months they were very busy, scurrying over the soft mud on the bottom of the pond. They did notice that every once in a while one of their colony seemed to lose interest in going about with its friends. Clinging to the stem of a pond lily, it gradually moved out of sight and was seen no more.
"Look!" said one of the water bugs to another, "One of our colony is climbing up the lily stalk. Where do you think she's going?" Up, up, up it slowly went... Even as they watched, the water bug disappeared from sight. Its friends waited and waited but it didn't return...
"That's funny!" said one water bug to another... " Wasn't she happy here?" asked a second... "Where do you suppose she went?" wondered a third... No one had an answer. They were greatly puzzled.
Finally one of the water bugs gathered its friends together. "I have an idea. The next one of us who climbs up the lily stalk must promise to come back and tell us where he or she went and why." "We promise" they said solemnly.
One spring day not long after the very water bug who had suggested the plan found himself climbing up the lily stalk. Up, up, up he went. Before he knew what was happening, he had broken through the surface of the water and fallen into the broad and free lily pad above.
When he awoke, he looked about with surprise. He couldn't believe what he saw. A startling change had come over his old body. His movement revealed four silver wings and a long tail. Even as he struggled, he felt an impulse to move his wings... The warmth of the sun soon dried the moisture from his new body. He moved his wings again and suddenly found himself above the water.
He had become a dragonfly. Swooping and dipping in great curves, he flew through the air. He felt exhilarated in the new atmosphere.
By and by the new dragonfly landed happily on a lily pad to rest. Then it was that he chanced to look below to the bottom of the pond. Why, he was right above his old friends, the water bugs! There they were scurrying around, just as he had been doing some time before.
Then the dragonfly remembered the promise. without thinking, the dragonfly darted down. Suddenly he hit the surface of the water and bounced away. Now that he was a dragonfly, he could no longer go into the water...
"I can't return!" he said in dismay. "At least I tried. But I can't keep my promise. Even if I could go back, not one of the water bugs would know me in my new body. I guess I'll just have to wait until they become dragonflies too. Then they'll understand what has happened to me, and where I went."
And the dragonfly winged off happily into its wonderful new world of sun and air...
Dear God, please remember my loved one who has left the pond we live in...and remember me...
Greg Surges
November 11, 2008
I met Mr. Sharko when his son Tim and I became friends at St. Matthias Grade School. As the years went by I became a permanent guest at all the Croation events via the Sharko family. I remember Leo as always being in charge of many, if not all, of the functions. He always seemed to love doing what he was doing and thrived with family and friends around him. I personally felt very welcomed by the Sharko family and their many friends via their heritage. Leo will always be fondly remembered by me and my family. My thoughts and prayers will always go out to Mrs. Sharko and her family. Sincerely, Greg Surges
Mato Veber
November 11, 2008
A true Croatian that loved God, family, friends, community and country. So few people appreciate these gifts, but Leo knew their importance. We should all learn from the path he set.
Debbie Taylor
November 10, 2008
Leo was on a special 'gluten -free' diet last Christmas, so I bought him some snacks. He said everything has no taste. So he opened the box, and ate almost the whole thing in one sitting! I got scared, as I thought I bought the wrong product- and it would make him sick. Then we shuffled to the kitchen to toast the new year! I know you will be watching me Leo - when I use the gavel for election of officers at the Delegate meeting! Is that why we always had a drink afterwards? You laid there so peacfully - like you were contemplating your next assignment! I will never forget you
Kathi
November 9, 2008
Mr. Sharko has been a part of my life for what seems to be forever and I will miss him. But he lives on in his family, and this is the gift he left me.
Judy Scherkenbach
November 9, 2008
Sharon,
Not only was I fortunate to have you as a friend at GHS, but I had the pleasure of getting to know your family as well. I have many memories I hold dear. God Bless you and your family.
Judith Scherkenbach
Amanda M
November 9, 2008
Sharon was a favorite teacher of mine in high school.
Through a Veteran's Day project we did during my sophomore year, I got to meet Leo and take his picture. He was a very kind and caring gentleman who was willing to share his story with the younger generation.
I keep him and his entire family in my prayers. God Bless.
A.G
November 8, 2008
Ms. Sharon Sharko was a favorite teacher of mine in high school. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. This was clearly a life well lived & a man that touched many people. Take care:)
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
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We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Obituary Examples
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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