June Sherk

June Sherk, a beloved aunt and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 103. Born in March 1922 on her family’s farm in Canada, June spent the first five years of her life surrounded by open fields, fresh air, and the sturdy values of rural farm life – an upbringing that shaped her resilience, love of animals and strong worth ethic.

June graduated from Radcliffe College in 1941 with a degree in Economics, a remarkable accomplishment for a woman of her time. Her passion for Economics, particularly her “financial programs” never wavered in her lifetime, and she continued to manage her portfolio throughout her life. To support the war efforts, June made her way to Baltimore and worked at the Seagram’s Factory that was producing war materials.

Eventually her path led her back to Erie, Pennsylvania, where she began her teaching career in physical education at Gridley Junior High. During the summers she attended the University of Pittsburgh and received her Master’s in Education. Her energy, compassion, and unmistakable laugh made her a favorite among students and colleagues alike.

June was the first single female member of the Erie Yacht Club, where she spent countless happy hours in her retirement. A devoted bridge player, June could be found most weekdays at the EYC, cards in hand, surrounded by close friends. June had many strong opinions, one of which was a party wasn’t a party without games. She held an annual party for decades that included up to 100 friends and family, filled with word games, square dancing, sing alongs, and of course the famous silent skit. It was a hoot!

June’s life was filled with many simple joys: sunny days at Presque Isle, playing ring toss and grilling hot dogs for her family, while sipping her favorite Cran Grape juice. June was a lover of music including waltzes, Gilbert and Sullivan and the popular songs of her era. She particularly loved the Christmas holiday, surrounded by her family, the Hamiltons and Buchanans, and although she was nearly tone deaf, she did sing her 5 Gold Rings part in the 12 Days of Christmas with gusto. She loved to read and garden, and especially loved tending to her roses. In later years, she was quite content sitting in her breakfast nook watching all the birds and bunnies, hoping to see her goldfinches. She had an affinity for cats, and always felt her life was more cozy with a kitty on her lap. Junen often said she was “lucky”, knowing she’d had a rather charmed life, and those who knew her would agree – lucky to have lived such a long, love-filled life and lucky to have brought so much laughter and light to those around her.

June is survived by her dear niece, Jacquelin Buchanan; her grand nephew, Brady Buchanan; and Brady’s two children, Kian and Ari; her grand niece, Mackenzie, and countless other nieces, nephews and cousins. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of devoted friends who viewed her as family and loved her dearly.

Her laugh, kindness and zest for life will echo in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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