Sharlene Drown

Sharlene G. was born July 28, 1936 to Mary B. (Jennen) and Harold Opdahl of Ghent, MN. She was the fifth of seven children. As a child she enjoyed horses and the outdoors on the farm. She attended St. Eloi School in Ghent and St. Edward’s Catholic School in Minneota, MN. In 1954 she graduated from Minneota High School and moved to Minneapolis to work. Sharlene was united in marriage to William Drown in 1955. They were blessed with seven children. Sharlene’s life centered around her family. Later on, she was employed at Gislason Hardware store and Schwartz Drug in Minneota. She enjoyed socializing with her friends, spending time in her gardens, golfing, and bird watching. Sharlene and Bill traveled a great deal. Bill piloted, while Sharlene navigated as they motored across the country. For many years, winters were spent in Arizona playing cards, golfing, and dancing. Her favorite dance partner was her husband of 58 years. Their children include Anita (Robert) Carlson of St. Cloud, Christopher (Denise) Drown of Alexandria, Cynthia (Dennis) Anderson of Cottonwood, W. Kurt Drown (and special friend Ilin) of Columbus, OH, Stephen (Crisanta) Drown of Broadway, VA, Mary (Scott) Post of Apex, NC, Brian (Dorie) Drown of Saint Cloud, and seventeen grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Sharlene died July 29, 2013 in her home of 52 years, surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, and two brothers.