Sharon Ann Pottenger

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sharon Ann Pottenger (born Yundt), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Sharon peacefully departed this world on April 19, 2026 at the age of 81 surrounded by her family, after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will continue to inspire us.

Sharon was born on November 17, 1944 in Frankfort, Indiana to her loving parents David Francis Yundt and Martha Miriam Yundt (born Snyder). She was the middle sister to Patricia Engler and Janet Rodgers. She grew up on a farm outside of Mulberry, Indiana where she enjoyed caring for the animals as a child. Museum trips to Indianapolis and Chicago with her family were a cherished memory.

In 1963 she graduated from Clinton Prairie High School in Frankfort, Indiana. She was active in the chorus, student council, pep club, and a member of the honor society. From a young age she exhibited a passion for learning and compassion for others, as well as for travel, art, and culture; qualities that she carried throughout her life.

Encouraged by her parents, Sharon attended Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana where she became a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. She graduated In 1967, proudly earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. She later received her teaching credential from Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan. During her time at Purdue she formed lasting friendships, including her future husband Rick, and continued her dedication to helping others.

On June 1, 1968 Sharon married the love of her life, Richard “Rick” Pottenger, in Mulberry, Indiana. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership, spanning 57 wonderful years. Together they raised two devoted sons, Brian and Jay, in Clifton Park, New York before eventually retiring and moving to San Jose, California to be closer to her sons and grandchildren.

An adventurous spirit, Sharon followed Rick on a European assignment for the United States Army in Heidelberg, Germany, where she learned German and worked as a civilian employee. She enjoyed organizing family travels exploring new places in the United States, Europe, and Mexico, and cultivating a love for the outdoors.

Sharon’s career included working as a 4th grade elementary school teacher in Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky; and later as an Administrator to the Dean of Students for Shenendehowa High School in Clifton Park, New York. After her sons were born, she was an active school volunteer and PTA member. She retired from Shenedehowa in 2007 after 20 years of service, reflecting her dedication to education and community. Her colleagues and students remember her as a supportive compassionate listener, always willing to lend an ear or offer guidance.

She was a member of the Trinity United Church of Christ in Mulberry, Indiana as a youth. Later as an adult, she belonged to Shenendehowa United Methodist Church in Clifton Park, New York. Sharon’s involvement in church communities was a reflection of her dedication to helping those in need.

Sharon was passionate about health and fitness including Yoga and Pilates. She enjoyed skiing with her family, biking, hiking, and playing tennis with her close-knit group of friends. She also enjoyed gardening and cooking. Her commitment to maintaining an active lifestyle was contagious, and she inspired many to follow in her footsteps, including her sons.

Sharon’s warm heart and genuine concern for others were evident in every aspect of her life. She was a loving mother, a devoted wife, and a caring friend. Even after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis she continued to support others living with the disease, offering comfort and understanding to those in need. Despite the challenges her grandchildren remained close to her heart, even as the illness progressed.

Sharon is predeceased by her parents David and Martha Yundt. She is survived by her loving husband, Rick Pottenger; her sons, Brian Pottenger (wife Kate) and Jay Pottenger (wife Danielle); her grandchildren, Bella Pottenger and Ryder Pottenger, who brought immense joy to her life; her sisters, Patricia Engler and Janet Rodgers (husband Vern); her brother in law Roy Pottenger (wife Margaret); her nieces Laurie Schell and Mindy Blake; and her nephews J. Kevin Engler, Bert Engler, Brent Pottenger, Kai Pottenger, Sean Pottenger, and Taylor Willard. Her family was her pride and joy, and her love for them was immeasurable.

Visitation will be held at Willow Glen Funeral Home, 1039 Lincoln Avenue, San Jose, California on May 8, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. A Funeral Service to honor Sharon’s life will follow at the same location, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. For those unable to attend in person, the Funeral Home website will have more information on a live streaming option:

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/san-jose-ca/sharon-pottenger-12841352.

A Committal Service will take place at Los Gatos Memorial Park, 2255 Los Gatos Almaden Road, San Jose, California on May 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM.

To make a donation in lieu of sending flowers, the family kindly requests you consider the following organizations:

Hearts and Minds Alzheimer's Activity Center

https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/9v3xe2

Lincoln Glen Manor Skilled Nursing Facility

https://givebutter.com/lincoln-glen-manor-generalfund

Alzheimer's Association

https://www.alz.org/?form=FUNDHYMMBXU

These contributions will help continue Sharon’s legacy of aiding others affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Atria Willow Glen, Palm Villas Campbell, Lincoln Glen Skilled Nursing; and especially Sharon’s dedicated caregiving team of Kari Brown, Keri Landrum, Gwen Parker, and Angelo Sanchez, for their compassionate care and support throughout her Alzheimer’s journey.

Sharon’s memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those she touched during her remarkable life.