SHARON KEZLER BLAUFUS
Sharon Keszler Blaufus passed away peacefully in her home on February 18, 2023, at the age of 79.
Born January 22, 1944, in Lodi, California to parents John and Irene Keszler. Sharon grew up with her two brothers, Greg and Bruce on her family’s farm and vineyards.
Sharon attended the Lodi SDA elementary and graduated from the Academy in 1962. She was active in school, holding positions on the Associate Student Body, Village Club Vice President, Temperance Club, Spanish Club, Junior Class Reporter, and Sophomore Class Secretary. She attended one year at Pacific Union College, before returning to Lodi and fulfilling her wish to be a legal secretary.
She worked for the City of Lodi for 38 years retiring in 2001 as a legal secretary in the Public Works Department. It was noted at the time of her retirement, that she had worked more hours than any other city employee in the history of Lodi. She was a silent leader, yet all knew they needed to go through her to seek approval of all Public Works Permits for this amazing city’s growth!
She inspired and led the team of Lodi employees in forming the City of Lodi Mission Statement which reads today, “The City of Lodi’s purpose is to enhance the quality of life for Lodi residents, reflecting our high community standards!” Sharon was active and held many leadership positions in Soroptimist, an organization that encourages women’s empowerment. She had an amazing love for her dogs, especially her Max, Maddie, Kenzie, and Kolby. She was an advocate for so many non-profit organizations, supporting cancer research, worldwide animal and nature causes, vision care, and diabetes.
Sharon married in 1964 and had the pride of her life
three years later, her son Michael John Blaufus in 1967. She loved him dearly and was proud of his many accomplishments and the man he grew up to be. She was a wonderful mother-inlaw and grandmother, welcoming her daughter-in-law Denise and grandson Kapulani into her life in 1997. In 2001 her grandson Dylan was born, bringing her much joy and delight as he attended and graduated from the SDA School and Academy, 3rd generation of Keszlers. No doubt she will be with him as he graduates from U.C. Davis this June. The last 5 years she enjoyed and doted on her beautiful Great-Granddaughters!
She was blessed with many chapters in her book of life, traveling the world, luncheons, and trips with her very close girlfriends, planning, and attending several Lodi Academy reunions, spending time with her favorite cousins, enjoying her SDA Church family! Sharon found great joy and peace in her love for gardening. She spent hours planting annuals and perennials in her front and back yard.
Sharon is survived by her daughter in law Denise Blaufus, her Grandson Kapulani Chong (Jillian) and Grandson Dylan Blaufus, Great-Grand daughters Phoebe and Daphne Chong, Brother Bruce Keszler (Sally), Niece Elissa Keszler (Annie), Nephews Ben Keszler (Lisa), Rob Keszler (Jenny), Mark Keszler (Janice) and 2 great-nieces and 3 great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her son Michael Blaufus, Father and Mother John and Irene Keszler, and Brother Greg Keszler (Joan).
Sharon leaves behind a family that loves her, who will miss and cherish her forever. She has many loving best friends from work, church and school that will miss her dearly. She was an amazing woman, strong willed, silent, yet stood tall in her opinions and independence. She was beautiful, petite but mighty! Truly loved!
On Thur. March 23, 2023, at 11:00am, A Celebration of Life will be held at Lodi Funeral Home 725 S Fairmont Ave.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in her honor at the American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org
Please sign the guest book at www.lodinews.com/ guestbook.