Sharon ROWLES Obituary

Miss you Shari my friend.

It is with much shock and sadness that I write this note of deepest condolences to Don on behalf of North Canterbury Riding for the Disabled. Sharon and Don both volunteered for us on a weekly basis along with helping on fundraisers and any other tasks required. Sharon was always bright and chirpy, ready for a laugh and could jolly our riders with challenges along so easily and could always make them feel great about their achievements - she was an outstanding volunteer and human being. She will be sadly missed.

This is shocking and so very sad. Thankyou Shari for always looking out for Mum and your yarns with her. Cheviot girls, Acland girls and GoreBay girls. Special. Our parents and Hughey at Dalkeith go back a long way. Our love to the Wilson girls and families.

The world lost a bright spark this week. In disbelief I write these words.
I met Shari over 35 years ago, on Bowen Island. She was vivacious, with a larger than life personality, that matched the bright colours she often wore. She made friends everywhere she went, on the ferry, at the airport, at the checkout, in a taxi, she had that uncanny ability to put people at ease. She was generous to a fault. She would give anything she owned if she believed someone else would get more joy from it. She loved animals, cats, dogs, horses, sheep, and supported any organization that helped them.
On my 40 th, she used her airline points to take me on a surprise trip to New Zealand and Fiji and was determined that trip would be one for the books. Impulsive and living life in the moment she booked hot air balloon flights, jungle trips and boat rides.
She suffered from many health issues over the years, stoically, defying all odds on her limitations, and determined to live life fully.
She spent this past autumn in New Zealand, her happy place, (where it was spring time) with her sisters and family, horse treks and bike trips, and gardening, and coffee in bed while she watched the sheep in the field, all the things she loved. She returned to Vancouver a couple of weeks ago, eager and excited for all the new adventures she’d booked in the new year.
We’d planned to meet this week. She made a wicked cup of tea, and always had stories. I will miss far more than that.
Gone too soon, my friend. I am so very sad, but I see you galloping along the sand.

The life of a special cousin Shari is never lost. It's influence goes on through all the lives it ever touched. My Thoughts are with you all at this sad time. Diane

Deepest condolences to you Don and to Marilyn Trish Suzanne and families at this sad time. Losing a loved one especially one with as big a personality as Sharon at Christmas is a double whammy. I have fond memories of the fun we had at Acland House with Sharon and how kind Sharon Daphne and Hugh were to me when I stayed with them at Gore Bay on a number of occassions.
ka nui te aroha