Sharon Ulmer

Sharon Ulmer, 74, of Mitchell, South Dakota passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.  A casual open house luncheon in Sharon's honor will be held in the fellowship hall of the Harvest Community Church of the Nazarene in Mitchell from 11:00 - 1:00 on Saturday, June 6, 2026. While not necessary, Sharon's daughter Angela would appreciate RSVPs being sent to 719-331-9107 to help in preparations. A small graveside gathering will be held later in the afternoon at Hope Lutheran Cemetery in Delmont.

Sharon Lee Ulmer was born on March 18, 1952, in Parkston, South Dakota, to Harold and Leontina (Pietz) Ulmer. She grew up on a farm outside of Delmont where she developed the strong work ethic and feisty spirit that would define her throughout her life. She attended Hope Lutheran Church as a child and graduated from Delmont High School before completing coursework at Stewart School of Cosmetology in Sioux Falls. She later pursued an accounting degree from Mitchell Technical College.

Sharon spent more than 30 years working at the Mitchell Coborn's, originally Randall’s Grocery, where she built lasting connections with customers who regularly waited patiently to have her as their cashier. As a single mother, she worked hard to provide for her household and to raise her daughter Angela. Sharon loved the Lord deeply and found comfort and strength through prayer and time spent reading her Bible. She was an attendee of the Harvest Community Church of the Nazarene before retiring and was passionate about sharing her faith with others.

In 2016, Sharon moved into Firesteel Healthcare Center, where she continued to share her quick wit and lively personality with residents and staff alike. Always one to keep her hands busy and mind active, she enjoyed reading mystery novels, crocheting, and pouring her creativity into handmade gifts and doll clothes for her grandchildren. She also lovingly made baby blankets for newborns she knew, giving each one as a gift made with thoughtfulness and pride. Sharon had her own way of making people feel seen and cared for, and quite a few of those near to her benefited from her evening round of messages that often included a funny photo, a quick update, or a simple assurance of her love. Sharon is survived by her daughter, Angela (David) Harding of Colorado Springs, Colorado; her four grandchildren, Camden, Ellie, Alaina, and Annabelle Harding; her sisters, Dianne (Dennis) Peters of San Jose, California, and Vicki (Randy) VanZee of Armour, South Dakota; and her brother, Stan (Joyce) Ulmer of Harlan, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Sharon lived with honesty, humor, and heart, and she never hesitated to let people know exactly where she stood. Those who knew her best will remember her resilient nature and her unwavering faith in her Heavenly Father. Her family and friends will miss her spirited personality in the days to come, but she leaves behind a lifetime of memories filled with laughter, creativity, and love.