Sharon Bakken

Sharon Lee (Nielsen) Bakken, age 80 of Westbrook, peacefully passed away Thursday, April 18, 2024 in Westbrook with family by her side. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Walnut Grove. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22 at Westbrook Funeral Home. Interment will be at the St. Olaf Cemetery in Walnut Grove. Stephens Funeral Service – Westbrook Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Sharon Lee (Nielsen) Bakken was born June 29, 1943 to Clarence and Ireta Grace (DeJaeger) Nielsen at home in the village of Revere. She was baptized and confirmed at the Revere Lutheran Church. Sharon attended school in Revere in her early years and graduated from Walnut Grove High School. On August 5, 1961, Sharon married John Bakken at St. Olaf Lutheran Church and they had three daughters. Sharon was active in her church where she was a deacon and youth group leader, taught Sunday school, led bible study, and served on many committees. She enjoyed Sunday dinners with family, bowling and reading. Sewing was her passion, and she had a talent for making a bride feel beautiful by making and altering wedding gowns and bridal wear for countless brides. She also shared her talents with the community through sewing for the Wilder Pageant, school theatre and other events. Sharon enjoyed being involved with Girl Scouts for over 25 years. As a result of all her time and support of Girl Scouts, she was awarded the Thanks Badge which is one of the highest awards given to adults in Girl Scouts to recognize outstanding service. She lived life to the fullest and her greatest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Sharon is survived by her husband John; children: Barbara (John) Frank, Wendy (Brad) Knakmuhs and Leasa (Scott) Jones; grandchildren: Whitney (Jace) Jarmer, Madeline Frank, Jessica (Jed Hacker) Knakmuhs, Abby (John) Jennings and Morganne (Gavin) Mattison; great-grandchildren: Konsondra Duerksen, Brady Small, Raelynn, Macy & Luca Mattison, Konner Hacker, Zoey & Jax Jarmer, and 2 on the way; and sister Marlene Molitor. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Harold “Punk” Nielsen and nephew Brad Molitor.