Sharon Lou Zook, lovingly known as Shari to those who cherished her most, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of July 8, 2025, at the age of 69, surrounded by family.
Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Shari was the youngest of five siblings – the quintessential baby of the family. Growing up in Clintonville, she enjoyed summers setting swim records at Olympic Pool, autumns cheering on the Buckeyes, and winters filled with sledding, skiing, and trying to keep up with her older siblings.
A proud graduate of Whetstone High School, Shari went on to college where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree, which launched a fulfilling career with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio Division of Wildlife. While Shari valued the work she did, it was her colleagues-many of whom became like family to her and her daughter Melanie-who truly enriched her life.
Shari and Jeff Zook welcomed their only daughter, Melanie, shortly after Christmas in 1984. Shari was a devoted mother who never missed an opportunity to take Melanie on adventures; together, they shared a love of the beach, and were lucky enough to walk many of them together. Even after moving to Florida, Shari remained a steadfast presence in Melanie’s life, traveling to Columbus many times a year to watch her grandchildren thrive and welcoming Melanie and her family into her home, every summer.
After retiring in 2003, Shari and her partner Randy Hoover moved to Inverness, Florida, where she happily lived by the river with her beloved golden retriever, Rally, and a book in hand at all times.
Known as “Meems” to her three grandchildren – Titan (12), Memphis (10), and Hayes (named after Woody, of course) (5) – Shari was an incredible grandmother, playing an irreplaceable role in their lives. Her passing leaves a void that will never be filled.
Shari was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Frances Trout. She is survived by her daughter Melanie and son-in-law Jordan-whom she adored just as much-her grandchildren, and her beloved siblings: super hero older brother Tom (Judith), sister, idol, and role model Debbie, beloved sister Laurie (John), and her “adopted sister” and best friend, Sue McBrien, along with many nieces and nephews who meant the world to her.
Family was everything to Shari, and she cherished the love and support of friends who became family, notably Peter Corbett, whose steadfast friendship endured across time and distance.
A celebration of life will be held during Buckeye Football Season, as Shari requested-an event fitting for someone who loved her Ohio State Buckeyes so dearly. Those wishing to attend may contact Melanie Rawlins at Footballmom1029@gmqil.com or via social media for updates. The gathering will be a joyful time of sharing stories, laughter, good food, and watching the Buckeyes win-just as Shari would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shari’s honor to the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. A frequent visitor, Shari was passionate about their work to rehabilitate and protect endangered species.
Shari’s absence will be felt so deeply and immeasurably as a result of the incredible impact she had on all those lucky enough to know and love her. Her legacy will live on through those same people in all they do – in laughter shared, in love given freely, in adventures taken, in quiet moments spent with a good book, in a loyal dog, and in the love of family.