Sharon Hipgrave

Sharon “Sherry” Hipgrave, age 75 years, of Altona formerly of Emerson, Manitoba and Janetville, Ontario passed away on Sunday, July 24, 2022 at the Altona Memorial Health Centre.

She is survived by her daughter Sue (Henri) Chaisson and her brothers Samuel Ball and Joseph Ball. She was predeceased by her parents Samuel and Olive Ball. 

A private committal service will be held. Those who wish are welcome to share their memories of Sharon and leave messages of condolence for her family.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Sharon may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or the Canadian Cancer Society.

How do you hold a moonbeam in your hand?

Sometimes there is a rare person that touches your life for a time, and you know heaven is closer to you.

Sometimes there is someone who shows the way -  not by words so much, as by example.

Sometimes the extraordinary resides within a small frame, imparting wisdom, living wonder.

Sometimes we understand bravery, courage, and incredible stamina because it has been shown to us.

Sometimes, if we are lucky, our path intersects one who so closely lives a God life that the two cannot be separated. It is simply relationship, and that is what is.

Sometimes there is endless joy, discovery, delight, and creativity in one body; in one being.

Sometimes, there is endless, enduring love.

And at a rare time, there is someone who seems to have done unbelievable things, knows much about many things, holding a paint brush in her hand to create whimsy in colourful bird houses, or a wrench to repair a motor; a smaller one to repair a clock; perhaps a gardeners’ trowel for the next set of treasured plants which bring beauty. What does it take to become the first female long distance truck driver in Quebec? And what does it take to battle numerous long term physical illnesses with grace, listening to her body, and responding with uncanny faith mixed with a touch of humour to wait and see what the Lord will do next.

Words can hardly begin to capture the remarkable life lived by one named Sharon, even though stories of this amazing woman should be widely told and shared. Living life fully was her way, and it is incredible in every way.

The peace in her spirit as she began this last journey gave light to all around her, even when the way was not clear, and now we give thanks for each day of its presence among us.

We also give thanks for the joy of release that is now hers, the peace that passes understanding, and all of the time to join the angels in watching over us.

Thank you, God, for the amazing gift of Sharon Hipgrave. She will forever live in our hearts.

Marilyn Houser Hamm

Spiritual Care Coordinator

Gardens on Tenth Apartments

and friend