ELKHART — Sharon L. Hale, 56, of Elkhart, passed away at Elkhart General Hospital Thursday, April 27, 2017, following an extended illness.

She was born in St. Joseph, Michigan,  May 20, 1960, to the late Wm. G. and Anna (Christianson) Stark, and is survived by her fiancé, Jeff Barnes of Elkhart.

Also surviving are sons Austin (Jessie Hawk) and Aaron Hale; stepdaughter Samantha Hale; sister Jeanny Shepherd; and brothers James (Jennifer) and John Luketich and Daniel (Margaret) and William Stark.

A brother Dale preceded her in death.

In accordance with Sharon's wishes, Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart has been assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Sharon was a homemaker who loved to take care of her home and family.

She never knew a stranger and enjoyed the opportunity to help others in need.

Memorial donations may be given to her family.