On January 10, 2022, Sharon Vivian Schmidt (DeGeare), loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones following a long battle with cancer at the age of 77.
Sharon was born on February 21, 1944 in St. Louis, MO to Vivian (Esch) and Andrew DeGeare. She grew up in Crystal City, MO and graduated from Crystal City High in 1962. After high school, Sharon moved to St. Louis to work. She then married and had two sons, Richard and Steven. She returned to work in data entry after her children started school and studied computer science at St. Louis community college. She worked in computer programming and data processing until 2002. Sharon, her son Rich and ex-husband Richard owned and ran the restaurant Café Linguini for 2 years. Then she worked 5 years for MO Family Services helping kids in need, before finally retiring. She met her husband Clarence Placht while bowling in the later 1980s, and they were married on March 21, 2015. She enjoyed bowling with her many friends from Brentwood Lanes, having a good party, occasionally singing even when the dogs would howl, and of course playing slots at the casino. Most of all she enjoyed hanging out with her large family playing cards, telling stories, and reminiscing (even about early mornings making doughnuts before school). Sharon had a big heart; she always made time to help others or just to sit and listen if someone needed a friendly ear.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents Vivian and Andrew, her sister Beverly and her former spouse and father of her children Richard. She is survived by her husband Clarence Placht; sons Richard (Sharon) and Steven (Ann); stepdaughters Cindy (Jimmie) Nestor and Christa (Michael) Amick; siblings Paul (Joy), Donna, Phyllis, Margaret (William), Richard, and David (Melody); grandchildren Dean, Ryan, Jacob, Alex, Jenna, Will, Alexandra, Luke, Mathilde, Natalie, and Elliott; great grandson Ethan; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to AM Cancer Society or Mass intentions.
Services: Visitation 4-7 pm Friday, January, 21 at Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Rd, Affton, MO 63123. Mass 11 am Saturday, January, 22 at Saint Justin Martyr Church, 11910 Eddie & Park, Sunset Hills, MO 63126.
I’m so sorry to hear of Sharon’s passing. My sincere sympathy to her family and friends. You will be in my prayers for comfort at this most difficult time.
I’m so sorry to hear of Sharon’s passing. My sincere sympathy to her family and friends. You will be in my prayers for comfort at this most difficult time.