Sharon K. Gonzalez

Sharon K. Gonzalez, a beacon of love, light, and wisdom, passed away peacefully at her home on July 10, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on December 17,1934, in Wausau, Wisconsin, Sharon was the cherished daughter of the late Gustave and Frances (Dybalski) Kmen. She carried the light of her hometown within her, even as her journey took her from the landscapes of Wisconsin to the vibrant life of Puerto Rico. She eventually moved back to the mainland, to Massachusetts, settling first in Milford, then Shrewsbury and for the past 20 years, Charlton.

Sharon's intelligence, inquisitiveness, and thoughtful nature were evident early on. After graduating from high school, she took her first strides into the professional world at Employer's Mutual in Wausau, where she met the love of her life, Jose Javier Gonzalez. After they married, they moved to Puerto Rico first in 1958, came back to the mainland in 1962, and by 1964 they were back on the island. Sharon remained there until 1994, when she moved to Massachusetts the year following Jose's passing. Sharon had re-entered the workforce once her daughter was in high school, and she worked in the steno pool at the FBI. She received numerous commendations for her outstanding work, in particular for her transcription work on the 1978 Jonestown, Guyana tragedy. Once she settled into life in Massachusetts, Sharon enjoyed volunteering at Milford Regional Hospital and working at Nature's Heartland/Bread & Circus/Whole Foods in Bellingham, working there until she retired.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Sharon spent years tending to her family and following her passions, which were quite varied. She played the organ at her church when she was younger and continued to play the piano at home. Both she and Jose had their single-engine pilots' licenses and enjoyed spending time in the air. They were also avid golfers and world travelers. Sharon was always reading at least a couple of books at a time, primarily non-fiction. She was fascinated by biographies and autobiographies, historical books, mountain climbing, underwater adventures, Egyptology, cooking, and more. A talented seamstress, sewing was her primary creative outlet, along with countless embroidery and needlepoint projects. Family was of utmost importance to her, and she was part of a four-generation household – her mother, herself, her daughter, and her two granddaughters, who she loved tremendously and helped raise.

Affectionately known as "The Captain" to many, Sharon's loving nature and cheerful countenance made her a central figure in both family and social circles. Everyone she met was taken by her elegance, her warmth, her genuine friendliness and happiness.

Sharon's legacy continues through her loving daughter, Frances G. Wilkinson of Charlton, her granddaughters Ashton and Brittany Wilkinson (and fiancé Sam Rubin), and her sister, Neva Meyers of Florida and niece Chris Bruns of Indiana.

Sharon K. Gonzalez's story is one of a well-traveled journey, a well-lived life, and a well-established legacy. Her memory will be held in the hearts of those she leaves behind, a testament to a life that was as full as it was fulfilling. She was loved by many and will be missed by all.

A visiting hour will be held at the BUMA-SARGEANT FUNERAL HOME, 42 Congress Street, Milford on Monday, July 21, 2025 from 11–11:30 a.m. followed by graveside service at 12 p.m. in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Rte. 109, Medway Road, Milford.

In lieu of, or in addition to, flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the Alzheimer's Association - - https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pxfid=975674&fr_id=1060&pg=fund