Sharon Jean McAuliffe

Sharon Jean McAuliffe, age 84, passed away peacefully with her family at her side Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Aurora Mount Pleasant Medical Center. She was born in Racine, WI, July 13, 1941, daughter of the late Sigmund and Edwina (Nee: Barela) Orzal.

Sharon graduated from St. Catherine’s High School “Class of 1959”. On April 25, 1964, she was united in marriage to Patrick D. McAuliffe and they shared 37 wonderful years when Pat passed unexpectedly August 23, 2001. Sharon worked at Modine Manufacturing for 20 years as a Senior Clerk in the Aftermarket Department. She retired in 2005 and was a proud member of the Modine Twenty Year Club. She was a member of the Harbor Lite Yacht Club where she enjoyed many a time with family and friends. Sharon was a social butterfly who just enjoyed the company of friends and family be it dancing, playing trivia, traveling, going to see music at the Pub, at Irish Fest or Indian Summers.

She will be remembered as a beautiful and kind soul who was vibrant, witty, spunky, and stubborn and as one who had a profound love for her family. She was the family matriarch and an excellent cook who hosted the family get- togethers and holidays. Sharon touched the lives of everyone she met with her warmth and generosity, leaving behind cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of her loved ones forever. She will be dearly missed.

Surviving are her son, John “JJ” McAuliffe; daughter, Tina (Bob) Jasinski; granddaughter, Sarah Jasinski; her grand pup, Walter; sister, Susan Chirigotis; in-laws, Shelley Orzal, Mary and Jerry Kringel, Judy Tallale; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her brother, Gregory Orzal.

Funeral services will be held at the Maresh-Meredith and Acklam Funeral Home, 803 Main St., Tuesday, December 9, 2025, 5 pm with Rev. Holly Anderle officiating. Relatives and friends may meet prior to the service 3-5 pm. Private entombment will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Shaymus Guinn Foundation, The Hospitality Center, or One’s favorite charity have been suggested.