Sharon A. Benzel

Sharon A. Benzel, 87, of Moorhead, MN, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2020, at home under the care of family and Sanford Hospice.

Sharon was born May 12, 1932, to Kenneth and Florence (Raymer) Hanlon. She grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from North High School. Following high school, Sharon continued her education at Hamlin University, where she received her degree in nursing. While at Hamlin, she also met her future husband, Norbert Benzel. Sharon and Norbert were married September 11, 1954. In 1963, Sharon, Norbert and their two children, Karen and Ken made their home in Moorhead. Sharon enjoyed her time nursing at St. Ansgar’s Hospital until she decided to change paths and returned to college for a teaching degree. Sharon enjoyed 23 years teaching English at West Fargo High School until retirement.

Sharon always felt that it was important to be socially responsible and was involved in many professional, political, educational, and social entities including: American Legion Honor award, National Honor society, National Honor society, National Honor Society of High School Journal, Northern Lights award, MGH Scholarship, Drew Fine arts award, Legendary League Award, Painting Awards : Waage Museum Fergus Falls permanent display, 4 National Jury Awards.          Memberships : 4H Club, MYF, Young DFL Hamlin U., American Red Cross RN, League of Women Voters, Mayor’s Advisory Com., Clay-Wilkin Opportunity Comm., Clay Co. DFL delegate, West Fargo Teacher’s  Assn., N.D. English Teacher’s Assn., Comstock House Board of directors, Mhd City Charter Com. Chair, RRWC Society pres. FRTA  V.P., CARTA, AARP VP., WFEA pres.,N.D. English Teacher’s Board of Directors

Over the years, Sharon  enjoyed watercolor and oil painting. She attended many theatre productions and symphony concerts. She especially loved spending time with family. Their time spent at the lake cabin that they built together was always a highlight. She will be dearly missed.

Sharon is survived by her daughter, Karen (Paul, deceased) Grotte of Georgetown, MN; son, Ken (Jennifer) of Elk River, MN; grandchildren: Karine (Jesse) Whitcher and Thess Benzel; great-grandchildren: Madeline Whitcher and Colton Benzel; sisters: Arlene (Ron) Albrecht and Kathy (Karl) Bohlin; brothers: Keith Hanlon and Ken Hanlon.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Norbert; grandson, David Grotte; and sister, Margaret “Midge” (Bernard) Claus.

Service/gathering information TBD.