Sharon K. Lutz
Director, Venango County

Sharon K. Lutz, 55, of Cranberry, Pennsylvania, the Venango County director of domestic relations, peacefully completed her life's journey while surrounded by her family at 1:20 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, 2009.

She was being cared for at UPMC Northwest in Seneca following a three-year battle with breast and bone cancer.

Born Jan. 17, 1954, in Franklin, she was adored by her two loving parents, Ronald "Pappy" and Maxine "Meme" Dunlap.

Sharon had many fond memories of being raised in Sugarcreek alongside her loving big sister, Rhonda Dunlap Weaver. She was a 1971 graduate of Rocky Grove High School.

Sharon would have celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary with husband Stephen Lutz on Nov. 3 this year. Her world revolved around her children, and she especially loved with all her heart her special disabled son, Eric. Eric David, 37, Tora Faye, 31, and Emily Anne, 21, were the apples of her eye and she loved to tell about how special her children were to her.

In addition to her three children, she was a "Second Mom" to many.

Sharon dedicated 30 years of service to Venango County as the domestic relations director. She deeply believed in fighting for the rights of children and made it her life's work. Her deep commitment was demonstrated as she continued to work throughout her entire illness.

Sharon had a unique zest for life and always managed to make laughter arise out of any topic. She was able to find humor in her battle with cancer up until her last days. She was known for her quick-witted humor, intelligence and "one of a kind" personality.

She enjoyed shopping, reading, crocheting, chocolate, Sudoku, sitting around the campfire, car cruises, bike nights, horror movies and Wednesday night poker with the guys. Most of all she enjoyed sharing time and making memories with family and friends, most of the time simply conversing over coffee and cigarettes.

Sharon made every birthday and holiday special even when she was sick during her treatments.

In addition to her parents, husband and children, she will be greatly missed by her brother-in-law, John Weaver; and her special niece, Genny Rebecca and husband, Mark Strausbaugh, and their children, Riley and Becca. She will also be missed by her two dogs, Lady Bug and Tucker Joe and granddogger Kenya Lynn.

Sharon is also survived by many wonderful friends and fellow cancer friends.

Sharon and her 26 cancer friends who have died will continue to provide their surviving friends with support for all who are affected by cancer.

A procession began at noon Sunday at Huff Chapel and continued to Lupher Chapel Cemetery, where graveside services were conducted by the Rev. Sue Montgomery, pastor of Nickleville Presbyterian Church.

The family has suggested memorial donations be made to the Easter Seal Society of Venango County, P.O. Box 231, Franklin, 16323; or The Kirtland Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 108, Franklin, 16323.