Retired Covenant minister Sharon Gradin died on November 19, 2024, in Gresham, Oregon. She was 85.
Sharon Elvira Gradin was born to parents Melvin and Amy Gradin on July 19, 1939, in Portland, Oregon. Sharon was the middle child of seven, with three older brothers and three younger brothers. Her parents often referred to her as “the rose among the thorns.” Growing up on a produce farm, which eventually became the Gradin Community Sports Park, Sharon learned the value of hard work. As part of a musical family, she learned at a young age to play the clarinet and accordion.
Upon completion of Gresham Union High School in 1957, she attended Prairie Bible Institute in Three Hills, Alberta, graduating in 1961. She then traveled to Bolivia as a missionary. She went by her middle name, Elvira, causing the locals to feel she was “one of us,” and ministered in Bolivia for about fifteen years.
Due to health concerns, Sharon returned to the US to pursue a degree at Seattle Pacific University. Upon completing her degree, she became pastor of Iglesia Hispana del Pacto Evangélico in Bellevue, Washington, where she served for many years. Sharon also worked for the Bellevue School District as a Spanish-language translator for parent-teacher conferences.
Sharon was an avid walker. Eventually she moved back to Gresham, where she spent her remaining years under the loving care of Sylvia Seulean and family at Eric’s Heavenly Care Center. Although Sharon had not been able to communicate with family for several years, they could tell that she was at peace. Her brother Rod would play hymns for her on the euphonium, which would bring a smile to her face.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Amy; older brother Wesley; younger brother Dennis; and nephew Matthew Gradin.
A family remembrance will be held next spring.
Peace be to her memory.
