Obituaries

Sharon Lorene Barsness-Toxby

Obituary

Sharon Lorene Barsness-Toxby passed away on July 10, 2022 after a short illness, surrounded by her family.

Sharon was born August 9, 1940 in Bellingham, Washington. She and her family were devoted Christians, attending and serving faithfully at Calvary Temple in Bellingham. Sharon graduated from Bellingham High School. She then moved to Seattle to train as a registered nurse in a 3 year hospital based nursing program. She worked at the University of Washington in surgery before traveling with a cruise line as an RN throughout Asia. Sharon then settled in Phoenix, AZ, continuing her nursing career as a surgical nurse. She loved square dancing and traveled to many square dancing events. She also loved to travel with her extended family, especially her nieces and nephew. 

In the late 1980s, Sharon moved to the greater Seattle area to be closer to family. She met Peter Toxby at Calvary Temple in Seattle, and they were married on January 21, 1989 by D.V. Hurst, then president of Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. Sharon and Peter enjoyed many happy years together. They loved traveling, skiing, and sailing. Sharon deeply loved her family and was a constant presence in the lives of her brothers, nieces, and nephew, bringing joy and laughter to family gatherings. She doted on her nine grand-nieces and one grand-nephew, and anyone who knew Sharon regularly heard about them!

Sharon and Peter dedicated themselves to their faith and to helping others, particularly through Northwest University. Many students have been supported in pursuing higher education through their generous and sacrificial giving. To honor Sharon, please consider making a contribution to the nursing program or the program of your choice at Northwest University, 5520 108th Ave. NE, Kirkland, WA  98033.

Sharon was preceded by her parents Arnold & Laura Barsness, brothers Wayne Barsness and Loren (Suzanne) Barsness and niece Corinne Barsness. She is survived by her husband Peter Toxby; sister-in-law Suzanne Barsness; nieces Shawnda (Matt) Hanford, Stacey (Jon) Arnold, Rachel Barsness, nephew Jason (Jennifer) Barsness; grand-nephew Justin Barsness; grand-nieces Lauren Rader, Allison Hanford, Morgan Hanford, Janelle Barsness, Jessica Barsness, Corinne Arnold, Janae Arnold, Maya Arnold and Ella Arnold.