Sharon Hartwigsen

Those who knew and loved Sharon Hartwigsen would agree that she lived a life rich in laughter, family, and friendship. Her loved ones were her greatest treasure, and she consistently went above and beyond to serve others with a humble and generous heart, in both big and small ways. Adored by many, Sharon will be forever loved and remembered.

Sharon was born on August 31, 1939, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and was the only child to Harold and Virginia Hayman. Sharon spent her formative years on the east side of Kalamazoo. She came from a large family with some well-established business people. The family were avid sportsman and bought a large lot on Eagle Lake in Texas Corners so they could fish, sail and swim. A property that generations of the family would enjoy for almost 100 years.

As a young girl, people often remarked that Sharon resembled Audrey Hepburn, with her striking features and thick, dark hair. She began developing her distinctive sense of style early on. Her family’s cottage on Eagle Lake, built by her grandparents, served as the setting for many cherished family reunions and holiday celebrations. Sharon loved fishing and sailing with her father there. She attended local schools and graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School, eager to embrace the future.

Out of High School Sharon became a librarian and later went to night school and became a dental hygienist. Being a single mom of two young kids in the 60s was hard. So, to make ends meet she worked part-time at the Four Winds Art Gallery that was located in downtown Kalamazoo There she met the love of her life for the next 58 years Paul Hartwigsen. Like Sharon's relatives Paul was an entrepreneur. He was a pioneer in in developing custom computer software for large corporations despite being a high school dropout whose only education was in the Navy as an electrician. Everything else for Paul was self-taught.

Their connection was immediate, and after just one year of dating, they were married. Their relationship was built on mutual respect, support, and partnership. Sharon was a steadfast foundation for Paul as he pursued entrepreneurship, contributing not only ideas but also hands-on leadership. She played a key role in designing business structures and buildings. Sharon even served as a general contractor for their Keystone Systems 30,000 square foot facility they built in Oshtemo. This was a clear example of Sharon's brilliance. She managed every aspect of construction, the one and only time she built a commercial building and was just one percent over budget.

Sharon was very talented having a natural gift for design and creativity that was beautiful and yet very practical. Designing and decorating her homes was one of her favorite outlets, and she thoughtfully curated every detail. Her home featured innovative elements such as cathedral ceilings and a dual-sided fireplace—features that were ahead of their time. It was a true reflection of her artistic vision, balanced with practicality and function. Her landscaping and gardens were equally impressive, always filled with something in bloom. Sharon was also known for her creativity in entertaining—hosting elaborate St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the 1960s and carving intricately detailed pumpkins for Halloween long before it became popular.

In addition to supporting Paul’s ventures, Sharon built a fulfilling career of her own. Despite having no formal training, she was a talented visual artist who illustrated three published bird books. She was invited by the president of Kalamazoo Valley Community College to help redesign campus buildings, where she improved both aesthetics and functionality. Sharon also designed the logo for the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Starting as a part-time receptionist at KVCC, she worked her way up to lead the admissions department, where her strong leadership skills shone. After retiring, she taught herself how to write comprehensive HR manuals and developed policies and procedures for recruiting and hiring across the family’s businesses nationwide.

Sharon found immense joy in being a mother to her three children—Mike, Lauren, and Kristin—who were her pride and joy. She poured her creativity into making their childhood special, sewing detailed costumes, including hand-knitted clown suits that drew admiration from others. She was also a wonderful cook and baker, and her sugar cookies were especially beloved.

Her home was always open, and she became a second mother to many in the neighborhood. She hosted countless gatherings, from casual celebrations to events for Paul’s business associates. Later in life, Sharon embraced her role as a grandmother to Vanessa, Becca and Connor and great-grandmother with delight, doting on Jackson and Callum Sharon was encouraging to all her loved ones to pursue their dreams.

Sharon was deeply committed to caring for the environment. A passionate advocate for animal rights, she worked with the Department of Natural Resources to help protect the wetlands at Eagle Lake, a place close to her heart. Through her involvement with the Kalamazoo Nature Center, she helped raise and care for animals. Her children grew up surrounded by birds, raccoons, ducks, and cranes. Paul even built enclosures and a duck and goose rehabilitation area at the lake house, where animals could recover before being released back into the wild.

In her free time, Sharon loved being with her family and animals. Her faith was central to her life. She and Paul were founding members of Pine Island Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the choir and played the piano. Sharon was an avid reader with a wide range of interests and could engage in conversation on nearly any topic. She enjoyed watching animal programs and was an early advocate for women, believing strongly in supporting and uplifting others. She had a remarkable ability to see the good in people and in the world.

Looking back on Sharon Hartwigsen's life, it is clear that she embodied integrity, compassion, and a strong moral compass. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she treasured every moment with her family and friends. Her generosity and spirit have left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Though life will not be the same without her, she leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will be held close forever.

Sharon Hartwigsen of Kalamazoo, age 86, passed away on April 11, 2026. She was born on August 31, 1939, in Kalamazoo. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul. She is survived by her children: Mike Hartwigsen, Lauren Fitzmaurice, and Kristin Hartwigsen; her grandchildren: Vanessa (Cameron) Miller-Neilley, Becca (Josh) Looney, and Connor (Chelsea) Hartwigsen; and her great-grandchildren: Jackson and Callum.

Please join us for a Life Story Service on Saturday, April 18 at 4:00 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. An hour of visitation will be held prior to the service from 3 - 4 PM. A reception will follow the service in the Life Story Center where food, drinks, and stories can be shared.

Celebrate Sharon’s life by sharing memories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamazoo Nature Center.