ERVIN SHARP

Ervin W. Sharp, 80, of Ellenton, Florida, passed away peacefully in his home on December 31, 2008, to be with our Lord. Born to Warren and Margaret Sharp in Liberty Center, Ohio, Erv lived most of his life in Delta, Ohio, with his loving wife, Grace, of 59 years.

Erv's zest for knowledge and love of life provided him and his family with years of joy and excitement. He began his career as a farmer and then went on to become a self-taught plumber, electrician, airplane mechanic and, finally, his dream job of a corporate airplane pilot for Owens Corning where he flew for over twenty-five years. Having met numerous celebrities during his career and flying to 27 countries, his greatest passion was entertaining family and friends at one of his legendary apple butter or New Year's Eve parties. Additionally, Erv was a Master Mason, a past Worshipful Master for the Liberty Center Lodge, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and a Zenobia Shriner. His many hobbies included being an expert marksman, hunter, fisherman, boater, camper, golfer, photographer, caterer, and storyteller.

He is survived by his wife, Grace; sons, Joe (Carol) Sharp, of Perrysburg, OH, and Bruce (Marie) Sharp, of Ellenton, FL; daughters, Linda (Michael) Miller, of Bradenton, FL, and Judy (Kevin) McFarland, of Toledo, OH, and six grandchildren, Joshua and Melissa Sharp, Kristine and Brandon Sharp, and Brianne and Dane Miller.

A private memorial service for family was held on Jan. 2 in Ellenton with a burial service to follow in Liberty Center, Ohio, in the summer of 2009. Arrangements were handled by Good Earth Crematory. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Tidewell Hospice Center in Ellenton, FL. or to the New Hope Baptist Church in Parrish, FL. where he attended.

You were a man of courage. A man of spirit. A man who helped make us what we are today. We shall not forget.