Shari Lea Dekker's Obituary
Our beloved and kindhearted Shari departed for the kingdom of life unexpectedly on February 14th, 2024. She led a life of purpose and profound impact, her life to be emulated but will never be replicated. A Lenten Valentines Day representing love and ashes is so fitting of a day for Shari to leave us. Celebrating her life on this day is the perfect gift and reminder of her tenacity, strength, courage, gratitude, and grace.
Shari's legacy will forever resonate as a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing her. Shari and Dan infused love into the lives of their family and friends. They journeyed across the Midwest to attend numerous hockey and volleyball games, passionately cheering on their children, Adam and Andrea. Following Shari's triumphant battle against influenza attacking her heart in 2020, she and Dan embarked on new adventures, exploring Michigan together on their bikes, covering miles of scenic terrain. In September of 2023, Shari and Dan departed for an adventure of a lifetime, inspired by their daughter Andrea, to explore Utah and all of its natural wonders. During their journeys, they witnessed the splendor of God's creation, gathered with family, and savored life collectively.
Shari is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Adelaide Lea Dekker; her parents, Lyle and Nina Peterson, and Gerald and Delores Dekker. She leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Dan of 42 years; son, Adam (Kathryn) Dekker; daughter, Andrea Dekker; and three siblings, Steven (Bernadette) Peterson, Stephanie (Michael Walsh) Peterson Belmore and Scott (Delores) Peterson. Her presence will be deeply missed by her extended family, including Don (Debra) Dekker, Deb (Mark) Dekker Pipoly; uncle, Dan (Cheryl) Fradenburg; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. These family members were not only relatives but held significant importance in Shari's life.
Embracing a personal mission of serving and caring for others with boundless compassion, Shari dedicated her life to the medical field after graduating from Whitehall Public School in the Class of 1976. In 1977, she embarked on her lifelong career following in the footsteps of her Aunt Margaret Arnold, who served as the Director of Nursing for Obstetrics at Hackley Hospital.
Shari's unwavering commitment spanned 43 years as a Registered Ultrasound Sonographer, both starting and concluding her illustrious career at Hackley Hospital. After a life-threatening experience in 2020, Shari believed she was spared for a divine purpose—to continue serving others. Upon her retirement, she devoted her time to providing compassionate care for multiple elderly individuals. She wholeheartedly assisted them in accomplishing their daily tasks, exemplifying a selfless dedication to enhancing the lives of others in their golden years. Her commitment to offering support and comfort made a profound difference in the lives of those she cared for during this chapter of her life.
Shari is now in the presence of the only love stronger than her own, her Lord and Savior.
A Celebration of Life Honoring Shari will be held 11:00 AM on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Calvary Church, 213 W. Oak St., Fruitport, MI 49415. A visitation with the family will be held from 10-11:00 AM. In memory of Shari, please consider donating to one of the following organizations, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Grace Adventure Retreat Center or Calvary Church. Thank you for your generosity. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com.
If you are unable to attend, join the family during Shari’s service at facebook.com/calvarymuskegon.
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