Sharon K. Auen-Lund
October 30, 1947 - March 13, 2026
Sharon K. Auen-Lund, age 78, of Newark, DE, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026.
Born on October 30, 1947, in Fort Dodge, IA, Sharon was the beloved daughter of the late Lyle Auen and Betty (Sidlo) Parrish. She grew up in Northeast Minneapolis and graduated from Edison High School before continuing her education at the University of Minnesota, where she earned a degree in Art.
Sharon began her career as an art teacher at Holy Trinity High School in Winsted, MN. She later continued her education, earning a Master’s degree in Special Education, from Bethel University. Sharon dedicated many years to teaching special education and was deeply admired by both her students and colleagues. She had a unique ability to connect with her students, offering patience, understanding, and encouragement that made a lasting impact on countless lives.
A lifelong lover of art, Sharon remained deeply engaged in creative expression throughout her life. She was actively involved in Art Goes to School, where she shared her passion by helping bring art education to elementary students. In her retirement, she embraced watercolor painting with enthusiasm and remarkable talent.
Above all, Sharon was a natural caregiver. She extended warmth, generosity, and kindness to everyone she encountered. Her gentle nature and selfless heart made her a source of comfort and strength to those around her.
In addition to her parents, Sharon was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Lee Walter Lund; her stepfather, Paul Parrish; and her brother, Larry Auen.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Alexis “Ali” Lund and Ali’s partner, Greg; her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Bill and Barbara Gabler, and Curtis and Kim Lund; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Sharon’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, creativity, and compassion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of Sharon’s life will be scheduled at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sharon’s memory to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380 or online by clicking here.
Catherine Duckett
Besides her love of art and her great compassion and caregiving, she was a very special friend. She had a wonderful sense of humor. My husband and I spent many good times with Sharon and Lee, rotating our happy hours back and forth. Sharon made friends so easily. So we spent time doing puzzles and playing cards and games with other neighbors. She loved to garden and had a beautiful garden patch in our neighborhood. She loved her dogs and we enjoyed seeing her care for Asta and Bella. I am grateful for the gift of her friendship. She will be missed and remembered.
Colleen Estes
Dear Ali,
I am so sorry – my heart breaks for you. Your mom AND your dad were such good friends to my parents – the four of them had some great times together! What a gift. Our moms supported each other on a daily basis after they each lost their husbands. I am so glad they had each other. I loved your mom! She was funny, kind, and never stopped caring for everyone around her. She is missed.
Kris Roehrig
Sharon was such a beautiful person and made the community a brighter place. She was endlessly patient and kind. She was a huge help and joy to my mother.
Ruby Batts
Your friendly smile along with your lovely, caring ways of making everyone feel special will always be remembered ✝️🩷👏🏾🌹🦋
Lisa Hagen
Ali and family, my deepest sympathy and prayers. Sharon was one of my greatest inspirations. She encouraged me throughout our friendship and I will never forget the conversations and time we spent together. She will be forever missed. Fly high my friend, and give Lee a huge hug from me. Together again in peace.
Alexis Lund
Love you more, Mom 💗
Cathy Baird
Sharon, I didn’t know you for many years as others did but sometimes the bonds of friendship don’t take long. You and Lee were special people, welcoming to all and so much fun to be around. We always found something to laugh about. Now there are tears but the memories will eventually bring the laughter back. I admired you both for your love of each other and Ali. I see you both in heaven watching over her, loving her and giving her the strength to go on. Godspeed to you both. You will always be missed.
Adam Lund
Sharon was my aunt, she always had a kind word for me when we met.
My condolences to you Ali. I am so sorry for your loss these past couple of years.
Kathleen Phillips
Sharon was such a beautiful lady who added such life and love to our community. One of the last major projects Sharon worked on was a garden outside her condo window, allowing us to grow on, but not without her. She will forever be in our hearts.
Jenna Benner & Family
I was deeply saddened to hear about Sharon’s passing. She was truly a remarkable woman. Someone who carried kindness so effortlessly and met the harshness of the world with warmth, grace, and a genuine smile. Her presence had a way of making people feel seen and comforted, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have known her, even for a chapter of my life.
She left a lasting impression on me that I will always carry. Please know that our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed.