Sharron Violette, 81

Sharron Darlene (Sadie) Thompson Violette, age 81, entered the Pearly Gates on March 28, 2021. She was born Feb. 18, 1940 in Polson to Joe and Dorothy (Smith) Thompson.

She graduated from St. Patrick’s School of Nursing and became a registered nurse on Dec. 15, 1961. She also took advanced courses at Montana State College in Bozeman and Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Using her skills, she volunteered to assist wounded Vietnam veterans.

Sharron married her Polson high school sweetheart, James (Jim) G. Violette, on Oct. 19, 1963. Together they traveled the world and raised their family, living overseas in Japan, Okinawa, and the Philippines, and in the states of Texas, California, Nevada, North Dakota, Florida and Virginia, before Jim retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel and they returned to Polson in 1982.

Sharron’s intelligence, dry wit, candid observations and warm heart were appreciated and admired by many dear friends and family. She adored giving gifts and had an amazing memory. As a child, she loved spending time on her Grandpa John Smith’s homestead ranch in Irvine Flats. She was devoted to her family, and she truly adored her pet cats and dogs. She was also an avid reader and an incredible bowler, seamstress and cook.

Sharron is survived by her beloved husband, Jim; sister Joan Estep; brother Stan Thompson (Donna Rae); daughter Mandy Melgaard (John); son Jim Jr.; four grandchildren (Lacey, Brittany, Alyssa and Sherman); and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Wayne Thompson.

The family extends its heartfelt thanks to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Polson, St. Patrick’s Hospital and Foundation in Missoula, and Partners in Home Care (Hospice) for their excellent care and support during her health struggles.

Per Sharron’s request, there will be no public service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission Valley Animal Shelter at (406) 883-5312 or P.O, Box 1644, Polson, MT 59860. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.