Sharon Lousina Niekamp

NIEKAMP, Sharon Lousina, age 78, of Kettering, passed away Sunday, May 31, 2020. Sharon was born June 8, 1941 in Cedar Falls, IA, to the late Arthur and Shirley (Snyder) Ruthstrom. She attended the University of Northern Iowa to begin her long and successful career in education. She earned her Masters in Library Science from the University of Michigan and relocated to the Chicago, IL area. There she helped establish numerous libraries throughout the area, in new and developing school districts. In 1977, while attending an Audobon nature camp she met the love of her life and future husband, James Niekamp. A year later Sharon moved to Dayton where the two were married and started their family. She frequently stated that being a mother to her 3 children was the greatest joy of her life. She ended her career in Wilmington City Schools where she helped modernize, automate, and update the entire library system.

She always loved nature, and enjoyed the many hours she spent outdoors, whether it was just going for a stroll or birdwatching. Sharon was a lifelong avid reader, and shared her love of reading with everyone, especially children. Throughout her life, Sharon had many challenges, including overcoming polio at a young age; but through her faith in God and with her own personal strength, she persevered in life. She will be remembered as a loving, kind, and compassionate mother, grandmother, and wife.

Sharon is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, James Niekamp; children Matthew (Janet), Mark, and Mary Niekamp; grandchildren, Darby Dickinson and Phoenix Niekamp; sister Julie (Jim) McDonald, and nieces Sarah and Stacy.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the many caregivers that have taken care of Sharon over the years.

A visitation will be held Monday, June 8 from 2pm-4pm at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering, with a memorial service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SICSA, 8172 Washington Church Rd., Washington Township, OH 45458 or to Ferst Readers at www.ferstreaders.org. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.routsong.com.