Sharon M. Berquist

Sharon M. Berquist, 77, of Cloverdale, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 in Cloverdale.

Sharon was a former longtime Portage resident and registered nurse. She had been employed at St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart and Dr. Penn's office in Lake Station for many years.

She also taught childbirth classes and her family was one of the founding families of Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church in Portage.

Sharon is survived by five children, Julie Stevens of Freedom, Pa., Robert E. (Sherri) Berquist II of Portage, Jane (Zelko) Cavlovic of Chesterton, Lora (Brad) Roberson of Cloverdale and Cathy Berquist of Las Vegas; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister Michelle (James) Gourley of Gary; and numerous nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Berquist and sisters "Jay" and "Cookie."

In lieu of flowers contributions to Portage Food Pantry would be appreciated.

Visitation will be held Sunday, July 22 from 4-8 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage, with a prayer service at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, July 23 at 10 a.m. at Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, with Rev. Andrew J. Corona officiating. She will be taken to church at 9 a.m. Monday for visitation until Mass begins at 10 a.m.

Cremation will follow service.

For information call Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel at (219) 762-3013 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.