Sharel, most affectionately known as "Shug", was born September 27, 1939 in Nebraska City, NE to Marion (Bob) LaFollette and June (Peck) LaFollette. She was only 2 years old when the country entered World War II. Her father would serve, but was not deployed overseas, although her uncle was (uncle Bud, her favorite uncle, but don't tell anyone). He served in the Navy on a battleship and was instrumental in creating mom's deep love of country. In 1943 when Shug was four years old, her family moved to Colorado where she would spend the rest of her life. The family moved frequently but stayed in the area, so Shug attended schools in Longmont, Mead, Berthoud (her absolute favorite time in school), Lyons, and Armstrong Country school where she graduated eighth grade with only one other classmate. She then attended Longmont H.S. but didn't finish her education, as in 1955 the family moved to Lyons, which would become her forever home, but decided she had quite enough of changing schools.
It was in Lyons where she would meet her future husband, Chester. They married and built their home on Evans Street where she would spend the rest of her life. It was there she raised her two children Sherri and Randy and the numerous friends that would come and go, enjoying the warmth and hospitality that she provided. Shug loved to bake, so there were always goodies to be had, and the coffee was always on. When she was 40, she decided to go back and finish her High School education, getting her GED. At one point, she had a hobby of baking and decorating wedding cakes and mastering roses made of frosting. She loved birds and had collections of coins, stamps, and Elvis Presley memorabilia. Up to her last days she loved listening to Elvis. She also loved Classic Disney movies--all of them--and would always get them on the latest video format, even if she didn't know how to play it. Shug followed the Royal family of England with enthusiasm, and got to travel to the UK to tour Buckingham castle. There was a tradition to "take tea" and dress up in hats and jewels in March to celebrate birthdays.
Shug's greatest delight were her grandchildren, who she would enjoy spending time with and do anything for, especially when it came to birthdays and Christmas. Patriotism was special to her, she loved the 4th of July and fireworks; and on September 27, 2001, Governor Bill Owens authorized the US Flag be flown over the Colorado Capitol building in her honor. But mostly, she loved family get-togethers: from summer cookouts to watching the Broncos, or especially celebrating the holidays (even when she had to share). She was always there, supportive, and very generous for anyone who needed her.
She is survived by her two children, Sherri (Chad) Gerhardt of Longmont and Randy (Julie) Barnard of Greeley, CO and four siblings. Ron LaFollette of Lyons, Robert (Virginia) LaFollette of Longmont, Delores LaFollette of Breezy Point, MN and Jeanette (Bob) Leichliter of Johnstown, CO. Four grandchildren, Ryan (Hannah) Richards of Honolulu, Kayla Richards of Loveland, Joshua Barnard and Mason Barnard of Greeley, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Chester Barnard, and her parents Bob and June LaFollette of Lyons.
The family will hold a private service for Sharel.
SHARE OBITUARY
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