Sharon K. McEwen 1948 - 2016
UTICA/FRANKFORT - Sharon K. McEwen, age 68, went home to the Lord as she passed away on Friday, August 19, 2016 in the comfort of the Abraham House with her family by her side.
Born in Little Falls, NY on February 6, 1948, Sharon was the daughter of the late Robert L. and Jane (Andrilla) McEwen. She was raised and educated in Little Falls. She traveled for a period of time and eventually made Utica her home. Sharon enjoyed her career and the responsibilities of her positions at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center where she worked as a secretary in the Trauma Department, and an Administrative Assistant in the Pharmacy, retiring in 2016.
Sharon was a sweet, nurturing soul and an independent, strong-willed woman. You could go to her and receive guidance and great advice while keeping confidentiality. She was a single mom who not only survived, but thrived while raising her child. She loved her son and when he married, she became part of her daughter-in-law's family, the Giruzzi clan. Her grandchildren generated the happiest moments of her life. She displayed great enthusiasm and gentle instruction with great care. Christmas season was a time of cheer and a time to cherish those she loved. Over time, she began to embrace interests that were outside of her norm and her excitement with new endeavors was a joy for everyone. She loved and collected Victorian dolls, and her artistic side showed in her scrapbooking projects that chronicled family events. But more than anything else, she loved her son — the person he became, his work ethic, his business talents, and the loving family man, father, and husband he was and will always be.
Sharon was a silent giver and her faith sustained her. She read the bible, took lessons from parables and scripture, and believed with all her heart in God's plan. She shared a personal relationship of prayer and adoration with her Lord. The World Vision and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital were her favorite charities of need.
Sharon is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Danielle L. McEwen of Frankfort; and her grandchildren, twins Robert James and Giuliana Magdelina "Giugu" McEwen. She also leaves her cousins, especially acknowledging Lorraine and Rick Smith with whom she shared a lifelong relationship; her best friend, "Aunt" Mary Jane Bello, with whom she shared everyday events for 40 years; and Filomain and Joe Talerico, amazing people who found their way into Sharon's life and shared so much love. Those she considered her family, Jim and Denise Giruzzi, Jimmy and Gianna, Audrina Giruzzi, and "Poppy" Vinny Pristera; Vinny and Gina Pristera and their children, Brianna and Krista; Frank Giruzzi and his family, Carla Giruzzi Keena and Lou Montero. Also close to her heart was Marie Pristera who preceded her.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Mathew Ulahannan; the staff of the St. Luke's Memorial Health Care Center 6th Floor oncology staff; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. and the staff of Abraham House; and Rev. Anthony LaFache for sharing his spirituality. These professionals and volunteers cared for Sharon and for those in need with the ultimate selflessness and compassion.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church where her Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Anthony P. LaFache. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass.
Online tributes at
www.EannaceFuneralHome.com.

Published by The Observer-Dispatch on Aug. 21, 2016.