Sharon Howson-Jan
April 5, 1956 - May 7, 2025
It is with sadness and love that we announce the passing of Sharon Howson-Jan. Sharon leaves behind her husband of 41 years, Kang, her children Stephen (Roselyn Wilson), Bethany (Eric Muller), David (Brittany Anne), and Christina (Evelyn Davis), and grandchildren Caspian, Wesley, and Wendy, to whom she was their beloved Shannah. She is also survived by mother-in-law, Siu, brother-in-law Chien (Helen) and their family, an uncle, and five cousins in Ontario and New Brunswick.
Born in Guwahati, Assam, India, Sharon was the only daughter of Herb (d. 2004) and Aileen (d. 2025), Canadian missionaries in Balasore, Odisha, India. The family eventually settled in Hamilton, where Sharon spent most of her childhood. Sharon attended McMaster University studying English and Social Work, earning a BA and BSW, and moved to London to work as a medical social worker. She met her husband, Kang, while they were both working at University Hospital. They were married in 1984 and lived in Montreal, QC and Minneapolis, MN before settling in London, ON in 1991. Along the way, Sharon earned her Master of Social Work degree from McGill University. After taking a twelve-year hiatus from the workforce to start a family, Sharon returned to clinical social work in 1999. She worked as a psychotherapist with Westbridge Associates until her retirement in 2023.
Sharon will be remembered for her grace, her humour, her wisdom, and her unmatched style. She moved through her life with a sense of vibrancy and playfulness. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family over a cup of tea, as well as music, theatre, books, movies, cycling, and hiking. She would spend hours on planning every family gathering, from celebrations to vacations, to create the many memories we hold dear. Sharon was also a member of North Park Community Church, where she served as an Elder for six years.
Sharon’s family is deeply grateful to her friends and community for the emotional and practical support they have offered during her illness. We thank the many doctors, nurses, and allied health staff who looked after Sharon in hospitals, clinics, and at home. You are true exemplars in your profession.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London. A memorial service will take place at the Chapel on May 20th, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a lunch reception at North Park Community Church.
A livestream is available for those unable to attend the service in person by clicking on the link below:
Memorial Service for Sharon Howson-Jan
Although beautiful flowers are appreciated in springtime, we ask you to please consider a donation to one of several causes Sharon supported: Indwell, Sanctuary London or Canadian Friends of World Central Kitchen.
Leave a tribute for Sharon Howson-Jan
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A donation has been made to Indwell. Message from the donator: To Sharon's Family, It is with great sadness that we give this donation to Indwell to honour our dear colleague Sharon. Despite Sharon having to take early retirement, her abilities to develop strong and healthy connections with colleagues and clients and her authentic positive spirit and contagious laughter continues to influence all of us at Westbridge. Sharon's commitment to providing quality therapy to her clients was evident in her ongoing professional development and her consultations with colleagues. Many of her clients have reached out to us since hearing about Sharon's passing, which shows how cared for they felt by Sharon. Her commitment to the success of Westbridge Associates was evident in her tireless advocacy in our office building and her behind the scenes work for the business. Sharon's love and commitment to her family was evident as she often shared stories and pictures of her beautiful children and grandchildren. We will continue to hold Sharon and her family in our hearts at this very sad and difficult time. With much sympathy we send our deepest condolences to her beloved family. Westbridge Associates- Rita Van Meyel, Nancy Wardrop, Julia Dunlop-Thompson, Dan Logie, Devonne Strachan, Jason Brown, Deb Reitzel-Jaffe, Lynn Brown, Randa Moir, Don Efron, Lee Anne Breaton and Connie Boles.
Kang and Family, We are saddened to hear of the loss of Sharon, dear wife and mother and grandmother. We were very touched by the heartfelt words of family and friend at Sharon's memorial service. Sending our condolences and prayers.
Kang and family, I was touched and saddened to hear the news of Sharon's passing. I remember spending time together at Manitoulin last summer, enjoying conversation over dinners and Code Names. When Sharon asked about my life, she was curious, empathic and astute -- qualities that I'm sure made her an excellent psychotherapist. I am grateful to have known Sharon, and will be keeping your family in my prayers.
My deepest condolences to Sharon’s family. Although we didn’t know each other well, she was gracious in offering practical wisdom to me when I asked. What a gift from her in giving me her time. I’ll never forget Sharon.
We are still reeling from the shock of losing Sharon, a dear friend, a wonderful human being, and a faithful Christian. There are so many great things we could say about her — her zest for life, her listening skills, her brilliance with words (and Words with Friends), her athletic energy … the list goes on. We will miss her so much. Our love to Kang and all the family.
Dear Kang and Howson-Jan family, My heartfelt condolences to you all. Sharon was an extraordinary woman of faith and grace who deeply loved her family and lived life to the fullest. I so enjoyed her company and greatly admired her intelligence, quirky wit, and fashion sense! At this sad time, I pray for God’s peace and comfort for you all. Much love, Cydna
Katherine and I have many great and lasting memories of Sharon. Her contributions to NPCC as one of the first women elders has been a signature moment for the Church and our Faith community. Her wisdom has left a deep legacy that will endure. She will be missed by all that knew her. Blessings to the Family during a very difficult time. Dale and Katherine Laird
Kang, my deepest sympathy to you and kids. I hope your deep faith helps you all at this very difficult time.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family Kang.
Services for Sharon Howson-Jan
Visitation will be held at:
Northview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
May 19, 2025 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Memorial Service will be held at:
Northview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
May 20, 2025 11:00 am
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
Our deepest condolences to Kang and family, Sharon made a deep impression with everyone she came in contact with. Sharon made us always feel important and we had our undivided attention. Sharon was so kind. We will miss her! Theo and Gerda Korthof
~ Theo and Gerda Korthof