Sharon Panske was a beloved figure in the world of sports and beyond, whose passing on March 25, 2023 has left many grieving. Known for her passion for competitive sports, her dedication to mentoring student-athletes, and her selfless nature, Sharon’s legacy has touched countless lives. Her passing is a significant loss to her family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community.
Keep reading this article to learn more about Late Sharon Panske including who she was, what was her cause of death and much more.
Who was Sharon Panske?
Sharon Panske, who passed away at the age of 61, had a passion for sports that began in her childhood. Hailing from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Sharon grew up as the youngest child of Mary and Jerome “Jim” Panske. Her interest in competitive sports started early, as she played softball in neighborhood games that were usually held in the large, vacant field next to her house. Sharon’s love for sports only grew as she became a standout athlete in volleyball, basketball, and softball. She continued to excel in these sports when she attended the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, where she graduated in 1986 with a degree in physical education, along with minors in athletic training and health. Notably, she was a key player in both volleyball and softball teams, demonstrating her exceptional skills on the court and field.
Sharon Panske died: What was her Cause of death?
Sharon Panske‘s death on March 25, 2023, marked the end of a life full of accomplishments and a dedication to sports, student-athletes, and cancer research. Sharon was not only a coach and athletic trainer but also a friend to many people whose lives she touched. She fought bravely against uterine cancer, but unfortunately, the disease took her life. Despite her passing, Sharon’s legacy and impact on those she worked with and the communities she served will continue to inspire and make a difference.
A Career in Athletics
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Sharon Panske joined the Athletics Department staff in 1986 as an assistant volleyball coach and head softball coach. During her tenure, she directed the softball program for 17 years and was instrumental in leading the Titans to NCAA Regionals in 1988, advancing to the NCAA Division III Championship final six. Her contributions to the team were recognized when she was named the NCAA Division III Midwest Coach of the Year. While coaching, Sharon enjoyed mentoring student-athletes and instilling the values of hard work and dedication to achieving their life goals.
After retiring from coaching in 2004, she moved to Richland Center, Wisconsin, where she worked as an athletic trainer in the Richland Hospital Therapy Department until her retirement in 2022. Sharon remained an active member of her community, dedicating her time to fundraising efforts for the Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination and volunteering for the Ovarian Cancer Community Outreach-Connie Rutledge Legacy Fund for 13 years. Additionally, she was a dedicated member of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association for over 30 years and served on NCAA championships committees at the regional and national levels. Sharon Panske’s contributions to the sports community and her tireless dedication to her community will be remembered for years to come.
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Honors and Recognition
Sharon received many honors and accolades throughout her career, including induction into the Richland Center High School Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2022. In addition, Sharon received the Donna Newberry Perseverance Award at the National Fastpitch Coaches Association’s national convention in San Antonio, Texas, and was honored with the 2006 UW Oshkosh Chancellor’s Medallion for Pioneers of Women’s Sport, among other recognitions.
Legacy and Memory
Sharon was a devoted dog lover, and her cherished dog Jackson, a basset/golden retriever mix, passed away in 2020 at 17 years old. Her dog Bud, a black lab that she adopted from a friend, is 11 years old. Sharon always said, “Jackson saved me, and I saved Bud.” Before her passing, Sharon established a scholarship for graduates of Richland High SchoolContributions made in her memory will aid in the yearly allocation of “The Rock Scholarship,” as a tribute to Sharon Panske.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and several other relatives, but is survived by her brother, sister-in-law, sister, brother-in-law, niece, great nephews, nephew, aunt, uncle, and many cousins. She was grateful for the friendship, support, and encouragement she received from her coworkers, coaches, student athletes and their parents, neighbors, and many other friends, former teammates, and players from around the country.
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Obituary and Funeral Arrangements
Sharon Panske’s family has arranged a private burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Due to the current circumstances, celebrations of life will be held in both Richland Center and Oshkosh, Wisconsin at a later date. The family is being assisted with their arrangements by the Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service.
