Sharon L. Steinke

Sharon L. Steinke, age 79, of East Grand Forks, passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the Edgewood Vista in East Grand Forks, MN. 

Sharon Lee Surface was born May 2, 1945, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Darth and Veraine (Herman) Surface. She was baptized into the Missouri Synod Lutheran Christian faith at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Niagara North Dakota. She completed her education at Unity High School in Petersburg, North Dakota. Shortly after high school graduation, she was united in marriage to Al Steinke. Together they raised their two children, Lori and Bradley, before they later divorced. Sharon’s career was dedicated to over 25 years with the food service department at the University of North Dakota.

Sharon enjoyed spending her time volunteering at local thrift shops, with the Quilter’s Club of Redeemer Lutheran Church, and was a part of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She was very active with the Grand Forks Senior Center, especially on bingo days. As a proud mother and grandmother, Sharon had a remarkable way of making her family and friends feel loved and supported. Her phone calls, handwritten cards, and letters were a constant reminder of her unwavering care. Sharon expressed her love through her delightful baking and her creative talents in decorating cakes for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions; adding sweetness to every celebration and moment together. Some of her most treasured moments were spent vacationing in Jamaica with her family, creating bonds and memories that will last a lifetime. Her gleaming smile and loving presence will be deeply missed.

Sharon is survived by her daughter, Lori (Travis) Hanson of Grand Forks, ND; son, Bradley (Kelly) Steinke of Dayton, MN; grandchildren, Alicia Hanson, McKenzie Hanson, Hunter Steinke, and Dani Steinke; great-grandchildren, Easton, Brenson, Nash, and Kason (due January 2025); sisters, Ramona Peterson of East Grand Forks, MN, Yvonne (Dan) Welsh of Grand Forks, Denise (Bob) Bergeron of Grand Forks, ND; and many nieces, nephews, and other family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Darth and Veraine; and brother-in-law, Keith Peterson.

 A public visitation will be held 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Amundson Funeral Home in Grand Forks, North Dakota. A prayer service will follow at 6:00 p.m. Memorial services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 10, 2025, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Visitation will be held 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. prior to the service at church.