Sharon J. Puotinen

IRONWOOD, Mich. — On the morning of Tuesday, July 26, 2022, we lost a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, aunt, coworker and friend. Sharon Puotinen, 65, of Ironwood, passed away after a brief but intense battle with cancer. Throughout her brief illness, her loved ones surrounded Sharon, attempting to adequately express love and appreciation for her while providing care with the help of Regional Hospice.

Sharon was born on Nov. 24, 1956, to Robert and Darlene Hendrickson in Virginia, Minnesota. Sharon lived with her family in Biwabik, Minnesota, until the age of 13, when her family moved to White Pine. Sharon met James Puotinen and they wed in 1973, going on to have three daughters, Jennifer, Haley and Shannon, eventually residing in Ironwood.

Sharon excelled at motherhood and has been the foundation of our family ever since. She was an excellent gift giver, always knew the right thing to say, never missed a special date and was a source of kindness, humor and wittiness. No matter the situation, Sharon was our constant cheerleader and supporter. She was affectionately known as “Ammy” to her grandchildren and loved baking them her special chocolate chip cookies and shopping at Kohl’s for them.

Sharon filled our home with warmth and kindness while being a role model for hard work, sacrifice and quiet determination, regardless of the circumstance. Although small in stature, Sharon was stronger and braver than anyone could have estimated. Her last weeks were challenging, but she battled daily despite enormous pain and suffering. She exemplified what we all can only hope to become.

Sharon was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Darlene Hendrickson; her brother, Leonard; and multiple aunts and uncles. Her husband, Jim; and children survive her, Jennifer Holmes (David), of Kingsford, Haley Johnson (Mark), of Chetek, Wisconsin, and Shannon, of Ironwood. Sharon is also survived by her most prominent source of pride — her grandchildren, Kailey, Maddy, Macy, Cade and Calli. Sharon is also survived by her brothers, Dan and Roy; as well as nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will honor Sharon’s request by not holding any public celebrations of her life.