Sharon Lee Palokangas

We mournfully announce the passing of Sharon Lee Palokangas, age 65 of Menahga, MN. Sharon passed away on April 25, 2021 at home, surrounded by her family, following a courageous battle with cancer. Sharon was born on December 22, 1955 in Wadena, MN to Robert and Mildred Bickford. She grew up in Nimrod, MN and was a lifelong member of Nimrod Lutheran Church. She attended and graduated from Sebeka High School. In 1973 she was united in marriage to Jack Palokangas. Together they had three children. Heidi, Leah and one son, Eric, whom they tragically lost in 1983. Sharon spent many years working in a management position at local grocery stores where she always greeted customers with her memorable smile. She also enjoyed her employment while working for Shepersky Meat Processing, the US Census Bureau and lastly at Greenwood Connections. Sharon chose to retire early to enjoy time traveling with Jack, spending time with her family and grandchildren. One of her favorite things to do was travel, she had many memorable trips with friends and family at places across the United States. There wasn’t a waterfall that she would pass by without stopping to enjoy it’s beauty. Other favorite stops for her included covered bridges (She and Pam Gilbertson made a vacation of seeing as many as they could find), finding new places and stopping at wineries along the way. She also enjoyed her flower gardens, sewing, cooking, reading and watching Jeopardy. She was always a gracious hostess to visitors and often treated people to a wonderful home cooked meal and a place to stay. She also shared a passion for vintage snowmobiles with Jack. In earlier years she enjoyed riding and more recently attending swap meets and selling vintage parts. She was the true sales person and the other swappers often preferred to make a deal with her. At times even flirting with the customers! Her outgoing personality and contagious smile were just one of her memorable qualities. Sharon is survived by her loving and devoted husband Jack. Daughters Heidi Hasbargen (Chad), and Leah Johnson (Craig) both of Menahga. Grandchildren Caleb (Nicole Grangroth), Carter and Cooper Hasbargen. Erica and Fordyce Johnson. Sisters Marilyn Nolte (Norman) of Milaca, Jackie Fredericksen (Donald) of Nimrod, Linda Hogan (Kent) of Salt Lake City, Utah. Numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. She held a special place for Erica as her only granddaughter, who lovingly referred to her as “Princess Grandma”. She was preceded in death by her parents and son, Eric. Visitation is scheduled for Friday May 7, 2021 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Wevley Funeral Home in Sebeka, MN. Funeral services scheduled for Saturday May 8, 2021 beginning at 11:00 AM at Nimrod Lutheran Church in Nimrod, MN with additional visitation one hour prior to services. She will be laid to rest at a later date.