Shari Kay Kops, 62, Owen, formerly of Weston WI, passed away on June 19 2024. A private family service will be held. 

Shari was born November 18, 1961 to Richard and Sharon (Kilty) Kops, the oldest of their 7 children. She grew up in Unity on the family farm. Shari attended Colby Schools, then graduated from Loyal High School in 1983. After graduation, Shari moved to Cherokee to be with her loving Grandma Lillie who was an incredible influence in her life. They spent a good many years together before Shari moved to the Wausau area.

Even though Shari was disabled since childhood, she loved to work and had a very strong work ethic. She took pleasure in socializing with the staff and looked forward to her weekly paychecks to spend at Shopko for the latest fashions and a lunch out at Annie’s or McDonald’s.

Shari enjoyed keeping busy with crafts, was active with bowling and church groups in her younger years, and she absolutely adored children. She cherished time spent with family, especially her frequent visits with her sister Darcy who always made sure to bring a child or two to brighten Shari’s day. Axle, Aurora, Anayah, and baby Ameer were always happy to visit with her and give the attention and snuggles she needed. Shari was a proud Aunt of 17 and Great-Auntie to another 17 children.

She had a kind soul and a heart of gold, even then she wasn’t afraid to offer up a Knuckle Sandwich if you interrupted some of her favorite shows, Hee Haw, Lawrence Welk, and Bob Barker on The Price Is Right was among her favorites.

Shari was preceded in death by her parents- Sharon (Kilty) Smart and Richard Kops, step father- Donald Smart, brother Rick Kops, grandparents- Lester and Lillie (Widmer) Kops, Donald and Virginia (Fleischman) Kilty, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Shari leaves behind her sister Darcy (James) Plaskey, who had been her art and fashion dealer, baby supplier, and legal guardian for the past decade, as well as other siblings, Donald Kops, Tara (Jayce) Abel, Noelle Kops, and Matthew (Jenna) Kops, aunts Sandy Zassenhaus and Darlene Andre and long time family friend Rose Laessig.