Helen Hope Sharpe

Helen Hope Sharpe, age 97, a life-long resident of Swanton, Ohio, passed away in her home, Wednesday, July 24, 2013. She was born July 6, 1916 in Toledo, Ohio to Ralph and Emma (Gigax) Harding. Helen married Clair E. Sharpe on August 12, 1941, and he preceded her in death in 1989.

Growing up Helen worked at her father’s bakery in Swanton until he retired. She then worked as a bookkeeper for Libbey Owens Ford. Helen went back to work for the family at the Sterling Store in Swanton. She retired as a bookkeeper from Scottdel. Helen was a member of BPOE, and charter member of the Questors and Bridge clubs of Swanton. She enjoyed going to the Swanton Public Library, where she made numerous contributions. She enjoyed traveling and spending time at her family cottage in Michigan. She was a mainstay in the kitchen where she enjoyed conversation and cooking for everyone.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving children, Rodney Keith (Cathy) Sharpe, Rebecca Ann (Patrick) McClure, and Linda Lynn (Dale) Gorski; grandchildren, Ryan Patrick (Beth) McClure, Stephanie Ann (Mitch) McClure-Mathews DVM, and Kristin, Brett, and Bryon Gorski; great-grandchildren, Maya, Colin, Deacon, and Cole McClure, and Kaelen, Delaney, and Graeme Mathews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Claire; and brother, Warren G. Harding.

A memorial gathering will be held Friday, August 2, 2013 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Weigel Funeral Home, 204 Chestnut St. in Swanton (419.826.2631), where a service celebrating Helen’s life will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Michael O’Shea officiating.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Swanton Public Library or Swanton Fire and Rescue.

Residence: Swanton, Ohio

Visitation: Friday, August 2nd from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the Weigel Funeral Home in Swanton

Funeral Service: Friday, August 2nd at 11:00 am in the Funeral Home

Interment: South Swanton Cemetery