Sharon Margaret Siefert

Sharon Margaret Siefert (née Whalen), of Brookfield, WI, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of her family.

Sharon was born on October 23, 1937, at Mercy Hospital in Davenport, Iowa, to G. Earle Whalen and Florence Schall Whalen. She was the youngest of three children.

In 1966, Sharon married the love of her life, Carroll M. Siefert. Their 56-year journey together was filled with both simple joys and grand adventures—from quiet bike rides and cross-country skiing outings to cherished family trips to Door County and two memorable journeys to Ireland.

A lifelong learner, Sharon earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Marquette University. She began her teaching career at Marquette, sharing her knowledge and compassion with aspiring nurses. She later continued her work as an educator at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Waukesha County Technical College. She never hesitated to help others—whether offering guidance to a student, mentoring a colleague, or using her medical expertise to assist someone in need.

For over 50 years, Sharon and Carroll made their home in Westchester Subdivision, a special community where friendships flourished and neighbors became like family. She cherished the warmth and support of those around her, creating countless memories.

Sharon found joy in the arts and theater, Badger football, and Marquette basketball, often attending games and performances. She and Carroll especially loved cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers and even attended the Rose Bowl together. She also had a deep appreciation for books and learning, actively participating in a book club and an investment club. She enjoyed making peanut blossom cookies, homemade granola, and lasagna, which became family favorites.

A woman of generosity and kindness, Sharon welcomed all with an open heart, whether through a heartfelt conversation over coffee or her unwavering support of family, friends, and even strangers. She was an active volunteer, giving her time to Irish Fest, St. Luke Church, and community organizations.

Sharon’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to Mark (Chan) Siefert, Katherine (Jon) Harman, Margaret Coraggio, and Elizabeth (John) Gardner. She cherished her role as grandmother to her ten grandchildren: Colleen (Josh) Uekert; Sarah, Amy, and Rachel Harman; Eleanore, Grace, and Sam Coraggio; and Jack, Sean, and Declan Gardner.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, her brother Robert (Penny) Whalen, her brother-in-law Carl Failor, and her sister-in-law Sandy Siefert. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She is reunited in eternal peace with her husband Carroll Siefert, her sister Marilyn Failor, her brother-in-law Allen Siefert, and her parents, Florence and G. Earle Whalen.

A visitation will be held at St. Luke Catholic Church, 18000 West Greenfield Avenue, Brookfield, Wisconsin, on Monday, March 17, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. A private burial will take place at a future date at St. Johannes Cemetery in Cleveland, Wisconsin.

Memorial contributions in Sharon’s honor may be made to The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement, where donations can be dedicated in her memory.

Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them during this time of loss. Sharon’s gentle soul, warm smile, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.