1944-2026
Sharon Welsch, 81, of Muscatine passed away on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at her home. Graveside Services for Sharon will be 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Melpine Cemetery. A memorial has been established for the family in Sharon’s memory.
Sharon Ann Ross was born on December 24, 1944 in Muscatine, the daughter of Harold and Beverly (Pallette) Ross. Sharon was a graduate of Muscatine High School. On July 5, 1963, Sharon was united to Donald Houdek in Muscatine, the couple later divorced. On June 13, 1992, Sharon united in marriage to Sandy Atkins. Sharon was a talented musician and had also worked at Salvation Army and Goodwill. Sharon spent her entire life caring for others. She always made sure everyone was well taken care of whether it was providing a meal, a place to stay or just being there for them. Sharon especially made sure that her family and friends were well cared for and knew they were loved. Sharon was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous where she continued to be very active and was also an active member of Trinity Episcopal Church of Muscatine, where she served on several committees. Sharon had many talents; having remodeled her entire home and had been known to cut down trees herself in her back yard. She loved doing Karaoke; playing her family cd’s and painting. Her puppies were very dear to her and will greatly miss her.
Sharon will be deeply missed by her spouse of 34 years, Sandy Atkins; children, Steve (Patty) Houdek of Muscatine; Jeff Houdek of Muscatine and Edward (Becky) Houdek of Michigan; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; siblings, Roger (Joy) Ross of Florida, Michael (Tina) Ross of Muscatine, Anthony Ross of Iowa, Debbi Ross of Muscatine, Pam (Darryl) McIntire of Muscatine, Judy (William) Arnold of Muscatine and Dianna (David) Brown of Muscatine and many nieces and nephews who loved their Aunt Cookie.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Pam, Judy and Michael; infant brother, Douglass; grandson, Austin Houdek; sister-in-law, Judy; brother-in-law, Darryl and daughter-in-law, Roxanne.
