Sharon Kay Brendel

Sharon Kay Brendel, a tower of love and passion, left this world on June 12, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on July 19, 1946, in Highland Park, Illinois, Sharon's life was a tapestry of devotion to her family, her pets, and the natural world that she so tenderly nurtured in her garden.
Sharon's early years in Highland Park were filled with the laughter and love of a close-knit family. She was a cherished daughter to her late parents, John and Kathleen Orsi. Sharon's life was further enriched by the bonds she shared with her sisters, Ginny (Peter), with whom she remained close throughout her life, and the late Sandra, whose memory she held dear.
The legacy Sharon leaves behind is as vibrant and nurturing as the gardens she tended with such care. Her daughter, Holly Benjamin was the light of her life, along with her stepchildren, Terri Olson, Kristine Blitek, and Fred Brendel (Lissa). Sharon's love extended to her grandchildren, Emma, Sophie, Loralie, Kaylie (Brandon), Morgan (Chris), Abigail (TJ), Ashley, and Brent, and she reveled in the joy of her great-grandchildren, RaeLynn and Tobas, Corran, Caspian. Her brother-in-law Dion Corsini and niece Kimberly Corsini along with her nephews Jeff and Christopher, will hold her memory in their hearts as a guiding star.
A woman of strong character and kindness, Sharon was a loving presence in the lives of all who knew her. Her passion was evident in everything she did, from her creative endeavors to her volunteer work. Sharon's love for animals was profound, and she dedicated countless hours to volunteering at the local animal shelter. Her role as a foster for dogs in need spoke volumes about her compassionate spirit.
Sharon's garden was a testament to her creativity and her connection to the earth. Vegetables and beautiful flowers grew under her attentive care, a symbol of her ability to cultivate beauty in the world. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, where her loving nature was felt by all who entered.
As we bid farewell to Sharon Kay Brendel, we reflect on a life well-lived, a life filled with love and passion. Her memory will continue to inspire those she has left behind, and her spirit will live on in the gardens she loved, the pets she cared for, and the hearts of her beloved family. Sharon's journey through life was one of purpose and joy, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her loving memory to K9S4U. https://www.k9s4u.org/donate-now
Services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Justen Funeral Home, 3700 Charles J. Miller Road, McHenry. Visitation from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm with funeral service at 12:00 pm. With burial to follow at Woodland Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Justen Funeral Home & Crematory, McHenry, IL. For information, please call the Funeral Home at 815-385-2400, or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones may share memories of Sharon on her tribute wall