Sharon J. Belden, age 53, of Elkader, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 22, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sharon’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, from 1:00-5:00 p.m., at the Garnavillo Community Center, 106 W. Niagara St.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sharon’s family.

Sharon was born on March 28, 1968, in Fairfield, IA, a beautiful daughter to Ann Sawvell.  She was a proud graduate of the Bellevue Community High School, Class of ’87.  Sharon eventually found the love of her life, Jay Belden, and on October 24, 1996, they were united in marriage in Strawberry Point.  They have been blessed with 25 years together and one daughter.  Sharon spent her working hours in a few different places, but her favorite was surely the time she was able to spend with her friends and coworkers at Norbys Farm Fleet.  She was a very outgoing and social butterfly who truly enjoyed visiting with others.  Sharon had a perpetual smile on her face and her selfless nature was always on display when she found any opportunity to help someone.  She carried with her a strong work ethic and never surrendered to complaining no matter what life would throw at her.

In her free-time, Sharon could easily be found meticulously tending to her flower gardens, joining family and friends for a little time around the dinner table, showing off and honing her skills on the pool table, or even spoiling her grand-puppies.  She possessed a heart of gold and only desired to be the bright spot in everyone’s day around her.  Sharon’s love and commitment for her family and friends never failed and the legacy she leaves behind will never be forgotten.  Our hearts are beyond broken to think that we’ve shared our last lovely conversation with her for now, but we find peace in the hope that we will see her again one day and that the Lord will keep her safe until that time arrives.  Thank you, Sharon, for being just the perfect amount of love and light that the world needed while you walked among us.    

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sharon include her loving husband, Jay Belden, Elkader, IA; her adored daughter, Holly (Cordel) Belden-Bries, Garnavillo, IA; her mother, Ann Sawvell, Dubuque, IA; her mother-in-law, Pat Belden, Elkader, IA; her brother, Allan Sawvell, Bellevue, IA; her sisters-in-law, Barb (Gary) Westhoff, Guttenberg, IA, and Betty (Jeff Harbaugh) Belden, Garber, IA; her grand-puppies, Gracie and Ace; along with numerous extended family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Sharon was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Russ Belden; her sister-in-law, Theresa Sawvell; her niece, Shari Harbaugh; and a nephew, Nick Westhoff.

Sharon’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Sharon’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com