Sharon Kay Bylsma

On Thursday, November 24, 2022, the spirit of Sharon Kay Bylsma left this earth in peace and love. Sharon was born on February 16, 1948, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She grew up on Merritt Street in Grand Rapids with her siblings and parents, John & Dorothy Dolfin. She attended East Christian High School and graduated from Calvin College in 1970. Sharon is survived by her loving children, Bjorn (Shanna) Bylsma and Amber (Brandon) Gorby; grandchildren, Addyson, Wyatt, Charlotte, Olivia and McKinley; sister, Barb Mead; brother, Larry Dolfin; sister-in-law, Marilee Bylsma; sister-in-law, Nancy Bylsma; brother-in-law, Jay Bylsma; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 50 years, Charles John and her parents, John and Dorothy (nee VanderStow) Dolfin. Sharon loved being at her home in the woods and spent countless hours in her garden and walking among the trees. Sharon was an avid organic gardener and enjoyed canning and preserving the fruits of her labor. She was proud to get her home and property in the woods recognized by the National Wildlife Federation as a Certified Wildlife Habitat. Sharon enjoyed reading historical and archeological books and doing crossword puzzles. Sharon was known as “Nana” by her grandchildren and all other kids that spent time with her. She loved teaching children about art, plants, and wildlife. Sharon was employed as an Art Teacher at Byron Center High School from 1970-1983. More than anything Sharon wanted children and decided to be a stay-at-home Mom after having children. Her love of teaching and children brought her back to teaching as a substitute for many years when her kids were in school. Visitation with the family will be held Sunday, November 27, 2022, from 2 PM to 5 PM at MKD Stegenga Funeral Chapel located at 1601 Post Dr. NE, Belmont, MI 49306. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Nature Conservancy.