Sharon Kay “Sherri” Knoblauch Obituary (2023)

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Sharon “Sherri” Kay Knoblauch, a devoted resident of Washburn, Illinois, who embraced her journey to eternal rest on Friday December 15, 2023. She was 84 years old. Her life was a testament to the unwavering faith that guided her through moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and enduring joy that touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on September 23, 1939, in Peoria, Sherri dedicated her life to spreading beauty and happiness through the artistry of flowers. As the cherished florist in our small town, she transformed ordinary moments into sacred memories, creating breathtaking arrangements that captured the essence of love, celebration, and solace. A woman of deep faith, she viewed her craft as divine calling, recognizing the beauty of God’s creations in the petals she carefully arranged. With an unwavering commitment to her craft, Sherri found fulfillment in being a part of people’s happiest memories and offering solace during their deepest sorrows. Her floral creations were not just arrangements; they were expressions of her love, care, and understanding, bringing comfort and healing to those in need. Through her creations, she imparted the message that God’s love could be found in the delicate petals of flower. A God-fearing woman, Sherri exemplified strength and grace. She embraced her role as a mother, grandmother, God mother and great grandmother, with unparalleled devotion, with a love that knew no bounds. Her home was a haven of warmth, filled with the laughter of her growing family and the fragrant beauty of her floral creations. Sherri was more than a florist; she was a beacon of kindness and generosity. She took the time to make others feel special with her thoughtful gifts, ensuring that every creation was a reflection of the recipient’s uniqueness. Her ability to make people feel seen and cherished through her artistry was testament to her compassionate spirit. In addition to her role as a mother and florist, Sherri was a pillar of strength within the community, touching hearts with her acts of kindness and words of wisdom. Her presence at weddings, funerals, and every milestone in between became synonymous with the love and beauty she brought to those occasions. Sherri found profound joy in her Catholic faith, attending Mass regularly and actively participating in parish activities, including decorating St. Elizabeth’s for all the holidays. Her love of God was evident in the kindness she extended to others, echoing the teaching of Christ in her acts of compassion and generosity. Her presence at church events, especially during weddings and funerals, added a divine touch to those sacred occasions. A devoted mother, Sherri raised four sons in four years with her late husband, Eugene, with steadfast dedication to her Catholic values. Her home was a sanctuary where prayers were whispered, rosaries were cherished, and love was abundant. She instilled the teachings of the Church in her children and grandchildren, fostering a strong foundation of faith that would guide them throughout their lives. Sherri married the late Eugene Knoblauch on June 28, 1958, and is survived by the four devoted sons, Greg (Rhonda), of Fort Morgan, CO, Randy (Margie) of Washburn, Doug of Los Angeles, CA, and Scott (Kathleen) of Metamora. Sherri had 12 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Though she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit will live on in the flowers that continue to bloom, in the memories that she created, and in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her. She also leaves behind her brother, Robert (Judy) Yentes, and sister-in-law, Kathy Yentes. Going before her are her parents, Robert and Kate Yentes, and brother Thomas Yentes. As we bid farewell to Sherri, we find solace in knowing that she has entered the embrace of our Lord, surrounded by the eternal beauty she once shared with the world. Sherri was dedicated to her profession, serving on the Illinois State Floral Association, as a regional Director, President 2002 to 2004, Past President 2004 to 2006. She became a Illinois Certified Professional florist in 1994, and inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010. She was also a member of the Alliance Floral Association. Visitation will be held on Tuesday December 19, 2023, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Calvert & Johnson Memorial Home, Washburn. The rosary will be recited at 7:00pm. A Catholic Mass in celebration of Sherri’s life will be held on Wednesday December 20, 2023, 10:00 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Metamora. Interment will follow at St. Elizabeth’s Cemetery, Washburn. Memorials may be directed to Transition Hospice, Peoria Office, 8914 North Prairie Point, Peoria, IL 61715 and prayers for the repose of her soul. May Sherri’s soul rest in eternal peace promised by our Heavenly Father, and may her memory continue to inspire faith, love, and reverence for the beauty found in God’s creations. Online condolences may be made to: www.calvertmemorial.com.