Sharon L. Strouth

Sharon L. Strouth, age 79, of Faribault, MN, passed away February 27, 2026, at the Lodges of Elko following an extended illness.

Sharon Lee, the daughter of Joseph and Evelyn (Kline) Kuchinka, was born on September 17, 1946, in Faribault. She grew up in Shieldsville, MN where many of her fondest childhood memories were made. From catching frogs with her brothers on Grandma Kline’s farm to spending fun-filled summer days at the lake; she was happiest when she was outdoors. Her love of nature and animals was well known to those that knew her. Over the years she cared for chickens, cows, dogs, and cats. Cats brought her the most joy: barn cats, stray cats, and especially her beloved pet cats.

She graduated from Faribault High School with the class of 1963. Sharon married John Strouth on November 17, 1963. Together they shared 63 years of marriage. They raised four children: Tim, Troy, Randy, and Angie. Her dedication to her family was unwavering. She was the heart of our home. Sharon found great happiness in family gatherings, shared meals, and celebrating milestones big and small. Her strength, resilience, and supportive nature were a source of comfort to all who knew her.

Outside of the home Sharon was a property manager, licensed Realtor, and USPS rural mail carrier. She kept busy no doubt. John and Sharon loved to travel. Visits to both Hawaii and Alaska were some of her favorites. They also spent three weeks in Australia on a host farm learning the day-to-day operations of an Australian sheep farm, an experience of a lifetime, that she shared memories of with her grandchildren. She loved to go for drives in the countryside talking about the “old days”. She never turned down a pontoon ride. She made the most ordinary things special with entertaining stories and her fun-loving spirit. She knew how to have fun and made sure no matter the occasion it was going to include lots of it!

Though our hearts are heavy we find comfort in the love she gave us and the legacy she leaves behind. Her strength lives on in us. Her love remains our greatest gift. Mom, you were our first home and our greatest teacher. You will be deeply missed and eternally loved.

She is survived by her husband, John (Jack) Strouth; children, Tim Strouth, Randy Strouth, and Angie Pavelka; grandchildren, Sage Strouth, Sara Strouth, Sawyer Strouth, Caleb Pavelka, Ayla Pavelka and Emily Pavelka; siblings; Joanne Clay (James), Janet Lambardini, Bob Kuchinka, Ronnie Kuchinka (Linda), Joyce McDonald, Debbie Larson; and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her son, Troy Strouth; parents, Joseph and Evelyn; brother, Ken Kuchinka.

Private family services were held. Interment at St. Lawrence Cemetery in Faribault.