On March 11, 2018 Sharon Marie Wiese (Heins) completed her 78-year journey through life in a peaceful manner surrounded by the ever-present love of her family and friends. She had valiantly struggled with the many complications of Parkinson's disease since being diagnosed in 2008. Her sharing of her death with her loved ones was her final act of love and it was with deep sadness and a sense of loss that they said goodbye to this wonderful wife, lover, parent and friend.
Recognized by all as a person with no guile, she is remembered as a beautiful woman whose warm smile and dancing eyes quietly welcomed all into her life. Supportive, nonjudgmental, and caring, she raised her three children and her step-son to be strong, independent, and caring adults.
A woman with great artistic ability, she showed her talent both in the way in which she put paint to canvas and in the manner in which she approached life. Her common-sense attitude towards life, tinged with a unique sense of humor, was a delight.
Born in Seattle in 1939 of parents Marvin and Nellie Heins, she was raised in Ballard throughout her youth and grade school years. Following the construction by her father and his brother of a beautiful home overlooking Lake Washington in Kenmore, she transferred to Bothell High School in 1954 where she developed strong friendships. It was the voice, over the phone, of one of these high-school classmates that brought a bright smile and a sparkle to her eyes during her last hours.
Following her divorce from Alan Painter in the early 1980s, she met and married Michael Wiese in 1989. She lovingly embraced him and his son, Damian, as the three began to share their life together. Having already raised her three children to adulthood in her former marriage, her willing return to the role of loving parent was all the more impressive.
Trained as a dental assistant, she pursued a career in dental assisting which lasted more than thirty years. Her work in dentistry was interrupted only by a five-year hiatus when Michael asked her to share her common sense and strong work ethic with him in his custom furniture business.
She is survived by her husband, Michael Wiese; her son Mike Painter and his wife, Suzy; her daughter Mary Tobin; her son Todd Painter; her step-son Damian Wiese and his wife, Christina. She is also survived by her granddaughter Tallyn Painter and her grandson Evan Painter; brother Donald Heins and his wife Chris; as well as many other close relatives and friends.
The time and place for a memorial will be announced at a later date. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all of those who provided emotional support during their time of grief and they thank the caring, devoted personnel of MultiCare Hospice of Tacoma, WA whose compassion and comfort helped Sharon and her family during her final days.
The family would appreciate the sharing of memories or photos which may be sent to: mlwiese@comcast.net