Sharon Lee Genova

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Sharon Lee Genova, 70, of Ann Arbor, passed away peacefully on Nov. 20, 2013.

She was born on Dec. 12, 1942, in Wakefield, to Jack and Lorraine Howe, but considered Ann Arbor her home.

On July 3, 1965, she married Nick, who was her best friend for 48 years.

She is survived by her husband, Nick; children, Pam (Brian) Gibson and Kurt Genova; her brother, John Howe; her grandchildren, Ryan and Nicole Gibson and Gina and Jillian Genova. She is also survived by a large extended family, including her very special sisters-in-law, Christine, Sara, Margaret and Leslie.

Sharon and Nick worked together for more than 40 years. They were owners of Washtenaw News Company and Genova Development. She took great pride in her work and was an integral part of the success of the companies.

She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor for nearly 50 years. It was her strong faith that helped her to endure her illness with such grace and determination.

Sharon was also a member at Liberty Athletic Club, where she was part of the "Breakfast Club." She loved and cherished being part of the morning group. We are especially grateful for the friendship and support these friends have provided her.

Sharon loved to decorate, dine out with friends and dance, but she was really most content when being with Nick and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a very loving and supportive wife, mom, grandma and friend who always put the needs of others first. She will be dearly missed by everyone.

Visitation for Sharon will be held at the Nie Family Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor MI 48103, on Monday, Nov. 25, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 420 W. Liberty, Ann Arbor, with visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Interment will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

Please visit Sharon's personal Web page to share a memory at niefuneralhomes.com.