Anne Lorraine Sharpe was born February 17, 1929, to Margaret ‘Peg’ and Russell ‘Russ’ Sharp of Fonthill, Ontario. She was raised in the village and was close to her older sister Eleanor throughout her life. Her grandparents were an integral part of Anne’s youth, as was their farm and blacksmith shop in Castorville. Anne was a natural athlete, excelling at skiing and golf. Throughout her young life Anne developed her talents, and skiing became her prime passion. She loved the freedom of the slopes and the beauty of winter. At 16, Anne boarded the train alone and headed to Quebec to race in the downhill nationals – her first of many major ski races. Her father was a golfer, and introduced her to the game. As a young woman she travelled with golf, competing in numerous tournaments – winning the Ontario Provincial Amateur Golf Championships numerous times and the Canadian Women’s Amateur Closed. After attending the University of Toronto, she graduated with her teaching degree, majoring in Physical Education, with a Geography minor. For many years she taught phys. ed. to high school students in Welland and Fonthill, sharing her skills and passion with youth. Her father, a pharmacist, owned and operated Sharp’s Drug Store in Fonthill, and Anne was a vital part of the business. Anne often reflected upon the love and opportunity her parents provided for her, and held a deep admiration and respect for them.
In September, 1955, Anne married William Douglas Sharpe, ‘Doug’, an accomplished baseball athlete, with a love of skiing, golf, and duck hunting. Anne and Doug enjoyed many years skiing and golfing together, creating their home in Fonthill and, in later years, Welland. They warmly welcomed their friends and neighbours. Anne and Doug had numerous nieces and nephews who were an integral part of their lives. Family gatherings were highlights throughout the year. They were fond of dogs, and their lives were enriched caring for shepherds. Anne’s great passion for the outdoors and for sports sustained her throughout her energetic life. She swam, cycled, and loved going for walks. She remained an active member of Lookout Point Country Club for many decades and, well into her eighties enjoyed swinging a club.
After a brief illness, Anne passed away in Welland Hospital, January 24, 2024, with the love of her nephew Sean, and niece Marnie with her. Anne is predeceased by her husband Doug, her sister Eleanor, brothers Ronald and Bill, brother-in-law Art, and sisters-in-law Audrey, Muriel and Marion. She enjoyed fourteen nieces and nephews, and is survived by her sister-in-law, Thelma.
Anne was deeply devoted to her family, and lovingly enriched the lives of her nieces and nephews. She had a great sense of adventure and a deep passion for life and living. Donations in her memory would be gratefully received by the Junior Golf Program at Lookout Point Country Club or by Welland Hospital.
Anne was a happy soul. May her spirit soar.
Condolences can be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca
