Sharon Virginia Knoll's Obituary
Sharon Virginia Knoll, 87 passed away peacefully in the early morning
hours of Wednesday, October 29th, 2025.
Sharon was born February 1, 1938 in Tacoma, Washington to Salem and
Margaret Nourse. She grew up on G Street in the North End with her
younger sister Judy (Johnson). Upon marrying Dr. Richard C. Knoll, Sharon
and Rich moved to University Place for several years followed by a move to
Fircrest, finding a home just down the hill from Rich’s dental practice. She
lived her entire life in this extraordinarily special part of Washington,
attending local Tacoma schools and graduating from Stadium High School
with cherished lifelong friends – what a blessing.
Sharon was an avid tennis player for many years as a member of the
Lakewood Racquet Club where she participated in spirited round robin
tournaments with friends, winning a few awards along the way for her
efforts and competitive skill. In later years, she enjoyed playing golf with a
nine hole ladies group at Fircrest Golf Club.
She was connected to her lifelong community of friends through volunteer
work in the Orthopedic Guild, playing with and hosting a Bridge group,
singing with University Place Presbyterian Church Choir and organizing
many weddings held at UPPC in her role as the church’s Wedding
Coordinator, a role she relished down to every last worried bride, nervous
groom and glowing candle.
Singing in UPPC’s Choir gave Sharon so much joy throughout the 20 plus
years in which she attended weekly rehearsals and sang in multiple
Sunday Services in fellowship. As their kids we have long admired how
involved and connected both of our parents were to their community, as
well as their friends. They have left a lasting example for us such that we
will always know which way to point our compass. Sharon lived her life in
service of others, whether that was caring for her family, the house, or
helping neighbors and friends, she always let others know she was there
whenever the need arose.
Sharon is preceded in death by her parents Salem and Margaret Nourse,
sister Judy Johnson (Marvin), and husband Richard C. Knoll. She is
survived by her daughters Wendy (Dan Herforth, granddaughter Madeline),
Lori (Ken Harrenstien, grandchildren Maxwell, Alexander, Annaliese,) and
son Richard Knoll Jr. (Carolanne and granddaughters Kalari, Alyna and
Adaira).
A memorial service to honor her life will be held at University Place
Presbyterian Church on Thursday,December 18, 2025 at 2pm
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital or Tacoma Humane Society.
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