Obituary of Sharon Ann Rytlewski

I am Sharon Ann Rytlewski and was born in Bay City Michigan, May 14, 1958. My parents, Ernest Rytlewski and Patricia Rytlewski were hard working and loving parents. My father was in the Army National Guard and always taught us kids to be proud of our country. I am grateful to be a liberty-loving American. As you may expect, losing my mom in 2014 and just weeks ago, losing my father was a huge, devastation for me. I wouldn't say I was the best mother who ever lived, nor was I that good at showing my love, but I loved my daughters very much; Jenifer Smith and her fiancé Carl Kotzerke and Stephanie (Shawn) Boknevitz. I was always so proud of them. My three beautiful granddaughters, Nadeleigh Smith, Mackenzie and Kayleigh Hubble were always a source of great joy to me. My two brothers, Ernie Jr. Rytlewski and Kris (Kathy) Rytlewski, and sister, Terri (Tom) Shaver were always there for me and owe a great debt to them for never giving up on me. I have been a lifelong resident of Bay City and graduated from Bay City Central in 1976. Can you believe it, I was Miss Bay County in 1978! After graduating from Ferris State University in 1981, I worked at Detroit Ball Bearing for a short time and then went into the insurance business with my father until my children came along. I was fortunate to have had the freedom to be a stay at home mom for many years taking an active role raising my girls. I was one very proud mother watching my young ladies partake in cheerleading and other after school activities. When my family had grown, I accepted a job at the Bay City Times. While working at the newspaper, I met and would later marry the love of my life, Al Peloquin. We had many good years working on and restoring an antique boat that was our pride and joy. Traveling to the Antique Boat Show in the Upper Peninsula was always a highlight in our year. Looking back over my life it seems as though it was too short. I had the unfortunate or fortunate ability to experience life as extreme highs or extreme lows. When life smiled at me, my great laugh could be heard and recognized by anyone who knew me. The lows would find me in bundles of tears, devastated in my bones, however, I will speak of the heartfelt highs. For many years, floating down the Rifle River partying with my extended family was always filled with fun and laughter. Spending Christmas morning opening presents at Mom & Dad's with children laughing and throwing paper across the living room had no rival. And of course, no one could purchase more with less than me. I was not only one who had a great nose for a deal, I was a professional coupon cutter as well. Did I mention that I was a professional practical joker? Yep, I would go to great lengths creating, and executing elaborate pranks, especially on my Dad. Planning and executing these would always be a certain place of great joy! In fact, one year I managed to totally surprise my Mom and Dad in Maui, showing up with their grandchildren. It was great fun! God and my parents not only blessed me with above average looks, they also conspired to give me a beautiful voice. For a time, I was a lead singer in a band! Yep, that was me, the next hot Nashville star! I also loved to serve my community as well. Serving as a River Roar coordinator for many years was rewarding, but also being able to reconnect with friends was my favorite part. If I could speak now from the grave, or talk to my younger self, I'd tell you this, don't compromise! Live life on your own terms and be true to yourself. You are much stronger than you think. Be independent and don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something, because you can do anything you put your mind to. Strive to always be positive and happy and love on your family as much as you can. THEY are the only people that truly matter in the end. Sing and dance as much as you want, wherever and whenever you want. Don't be deceived, tomorrow is not guaranteed. Private family services have been held, however, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Memorial Contributions to the Bay Area Women's Center, 3411 E. Midland Road, Bay City, MI 48706. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocieytmidmi.com