D. "Mike" Sharar

David Michael Sharar June 17, 1947 – March 24, 2009 Mike Sharar was the son of David Mason Sharar and Lyzena Payne Sharar and the stepson of Ruth Sharar, who all preceded him in death. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia and died in Olympia, Washington. He attended Whitman College and graduated from the University of Washington with B.A. and M.B.A. degrees. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Anne Todd Sharar; two daughters, Amy Sharar of Olympia and Erin Rooney (Bob) of Puyallup; and his brother, Kenneth Casey, M.D. (Jean) of Ann Arbor, Michigan. He also is survived by many Sharar cousins and Todd family members. Mike deeply loved his family and his friends and frequently told us so. He was a man of integrity who pursued personal excellence and gently taught us to be our best selves. He was intensely spiritual and took great solace and inspiration from his Catholic faith. We will miss his encouragement, wisdom, wit and remarkable way with words. During his 30-year public sector career Mike worked for the Seattle Engineering Dept., Seattle City Light, METRO, and the LOTT Wastewater Alliance. He then worked as a consultant for Parametrix and ESA Adolfson. Noted for his simple explanations of complex concepts, he was respected for his skill in guiding public officials and citizen groups to consensus. Mike was proud to serve as president of the Rotary Club of Olympia and lived by the principles of Rotary’s four-way test. He spoke the truth, was fair to all, constantly built good will and better friendships, and sought outcomes that were beneficial to everyone concerned. Mike valued hard work for the results of his efforts and for the sense of accomplishment he found in a job well done. While he was in the rehab unit recovering from his stroke he was asked by a therapist asked what he liked to do in his spare time. He replied that he liked to work. He also liked computers, new technologies and gadgets of all kinds, cars, fishing for small mouth bass, photography, reading, and travel. Plans are pending for a memorial to honor Mike’s commitment to improving water quality, reusing water and helping others to understand and join in this mission. The family also suggests donations to the American Diabetes Association. We wish to acknowledge and thank all those who provided such excellent care for Mike at St. Peter Hospital and reached out to our family during his lengthy stay. To leave a condolence for the family, click on View Guestbook below: