Sharon Jean Stoken

STOKEN, Sharon J. Passed away peacefully Thursday September 20, 2018 at Rose Arbor Hospice. Sharon was surrounded by the love of her family. She will be greeted at the gates of heaven by Jesus Christ our Lord and will be reunited with loved ones who went before her. Sharon was born January 5, 1957 in Norwich, England the daughter of James and Veronica (Lemmon) Emery. She retired after 40 years from Western Michigan University. She collected many friends during her WMU years of service. Surviving are a daughter, Natalie Stoken; brother, Jim (Staci) Emery; five sisters, Tina (Mick) Mikel, Sally (Tony) Cardenas, Jill (Steve) Kinkema, Diane Gonzalez, Karen (Brian) Tomlinson; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers; John and Steven Emery and a sister Mary Allen-Owens. Sharon’s greatest joy and accomplishment in her life is her beautiful daughter Natalie. She enjoyed taking pictures of everything and everybody. Sharon was very talented with photography and has quite a collection of photos and photo books. She enjoyed family to the utmost. She especially enjoyed family gatherings for all occasions. Sharon loved having been raised in our large family. She said she wouldn’t have wanted to have it any other way. Being the oldest and having been born in England, her brothers and sisters lovingly referred to her as the queen that she was. Sharon also got joy from her dog Pepper whom she has had for many years. A memorial service and luncheon will be held at 1:00 pm Sunday September 30, 2018 at The Fountains in Parchment, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements made by Redmond Funeral Home 4100 S. Westnedge Ave. Kalamazoo, MI  49008. www.redmondfuneralhome.net.