In Remembrance

Diane Marie Van Damme Sharrow, 70, of Superior, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully on May 31, 2026, as the full moon ascended over Lake Superior, surrounded by the love of her family and dear friends. She was a once-in-a-blue-moon woman.

Born June 16, 1955, to William and Rose Ann Van Damme, Diane lived a life marked by creativity, authenticity, and deep devotion to the people she held dear. Affectionately known as “Tinker,” she brought color, warmth, and unmistakable individuality into every space she entered, moving through the world with grace, humor, and an open heart.

Family was the cornerstone of Diane’s life. She shared 44 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Maurice Sharrow, with whom she built a life grounded in love, laughter, hospitality, and enduring friendship. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to Hally and Patrick, and a treasured presence within a wide circle of family and friends who were continually uplifted by her care and generosity.

Diane found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments: gathering with loved ones around the kitchen table; hosting gatherings filled with joy and laughter; spending time along the south shore of Lake Superior; and enjoying art, adventures, music, museums, concerts, and dance floors. She was a member of the Wisconsin Retired Educators’ Association, the Superior Area Retired Educators’ Association, the University of Wisconsin-Superior Alumni Association, the Douglas County Special Olympics Committee, Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Superior High School Class of ’73, and her beloved trivia team, “Over the Hill.”

A gifted and devoted educator, Diane dedicated more than three decades to the Superior School District as an art teacher, where she inspired generations of students to see and create beauty in the world around them. She also played a pivotal role in establishing the girls’ hockey program in Superior, leaving a lasting legacy of opportunity, encouragement, and community pride.

Above all, Diane had a rare gift for making others feel seen, valued, and welcome. Her kindness, humor, generosity, and authenticity left an indelible mark on all who knew her, brightening every room she entered and every life she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Rose Ann Van Damme; her brothers, Dennis Van Damme and Thomas John Van Damme; and many cherished friends and relatives.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Maurice Sharrow; her children, Hally Sharrow and Patrick Sharrow; her sister, Mary Jill Monaghan; her brother, William “Skip” (Lori) Van Damme; her dear cousin, Dave (Barb) Eibon; her favorite puppy, Ila; and a wide and loving circle of extended family, cherished friends, colleagues, and community members who will carry her memory forward with enduring affection.

Diane’s life will be remembered for its creativity, generosity, and joy. She leaves behind the beauty she created, the opportunities she helped shape, and the love she gave so freely.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Great Hall at the Kitchi Gammi Club in Duluth, Minnesota.

In honor of Diane’s lifelong appreciation for fashion and self-expression, thoughtful and respectful attire is warmly encouraged. She would have wanted to be celebrated in style.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made directly to the family in her memory.