7/7/57 – 8/24/17
Sharon Marie Monaghan
Raised in Dodge City, KS and an alumna of University of Kansas, Sharon Monaghan came to Seattle in 1981, which quickly became home. Graduating from the University of Washington in 1982 with her Masters in Nursing, Sharon worked in the Harborview Burn Center ICU before opening the hospital’s Neurosurgery ICU in 1984 as the department’s Nurse Manager. For several decades she continued her career as a healthcare executive in roles with NW Emergency Physicians, Virginia Mason and Children’s Hospital, while building a reputation for exceptional leadership, mentorship and devotion to her staff.
In 1982, Sharon met and fell in love with Cathie Cannon, whom she would marry in 1987 on the backside of the Taj Mahal. Together they travelled the world, built a village of friends and family, and raised their daughter, Mackenzie Monaghan Cannon. She was a lifelong adventurer and always up for one last sled ride, challenge or dare if you suggested it. Whip smart with a wicked sense of humor, Sharon was unflinchingly loyal and protective of those lucky enough to be in her tribe. When she welcomed her daughter, she adapted her signature dry wit for a playfulness that earned her the role of Mackenzie’s favorite playmate and instigator of mischief. A devoted wife and mother, Sharon was also a favorite aunt and source of endless laughter and love for children of all ages.
Alzheimer’s Disease crept into Sharon’s life just before her fiftieth birthday, corroding the brain of this fiercely intelligent, independent woman. Sharon tried in every way possible to hold on to those she loved and they to her. Over the years, Cathie, Mackenzie, family, and friends have surrounded her with the love and devotion she showed them throughout her life. On August 24th, after a vigil that included a scotch toast, tales of a wild youth, and an open window, Sharon’s spirit was finally set free. She believed she would return to us; we will watch for her.
Sharon is survived by her wife Cathie, daughter Mackenzie, brothers Shawn, Kevin, Patrick, Stacey, Tom, sister Sheila (Seattle), a band of in-laws, a plethora of loving nieces and nephews, and a multitude of friends. She joins her parents, Chuck and Madge, as well as her aunts in the next life.
A celebration of Sharon’s life will be held on October 14th at the Center for Urban Horticulture. For details please see the Barton Family Obituary details. Donations can be made in her name to Planned Parenthood, Greater Seattle Alzheimer’s, or YMCA Camp Orkila. We would like to thank the staff, who also became friends, at Evergreen South Adult Family Home for their devotion and loving care. We would also like to acknowledge the circle of friends and family who surrounded Sharon and the family for the last ten years.
Please let us know if you can attend Sharon’s Celebration of Life at Center for Urban Horticulture. October 14th 2017 at 3-6pm. Please email RSVP and any questions to Sharonlovedlife@gmail.com or call Cathie.