Sharon L. Steidler

Sharon Lynn Steidler, 51, of Downingtown, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.

Sharon was born in West Chester, PA on February 5, 1968 to Lorraine (Cain) Steidler and the late Frank A. Steidler Jr.

She is survived by her mother, Lorraine Steidler; siblings, Carol Valocchi, Patricia Howie (Brent), Jeffrey Steidler (Kelly); and many beloved nieces and nephews. Sharon was predeceased by her father and a brother; Frank A. Steidler, III. She is also survived by a stepmother Barbara Steidler of Coatesville, PA.

Sharon was a student at the Harrison Dance Studio in West Chester beginning at the age of 5 developing later into a career in professional dance.

Sharon attended St. Joseph’s Elementary school in Downingtown, PA and graduated in 1986 from Bishop Shanahan High School, West Chester PA.

Sharon’s childhood and teen years were spent perfecting her dance talent in classes, recitals and shows with the Harrison Studios.  She made appearances annually in productions of The Nutcracker Suite, and on the local television variety program, the Al Alberts show.

Sharon went on to teach many young dancers and dance professionally.  She was a member of the Philadelphia 76’ers dance team, and had a long career performing in “Legends in Concert” as a dancer and back up vocalist.  Sharon lit up the stage with her love for dance and performing in locations such as Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach and Atlantic City.  She formed many long-lasting friendships she cherished dearly.

Sharon took the challenge of being diagnosed with breast cancer as an opportunity to share her journey with others in the hope that they would be inspired to conquer hardships.  She documented her journey as only she could, with optimism and humor.  As a performer Sharon’s ethos was the “show must go on” and that is how she lived.   

Sharon enjoyed her job and friends at Chester County Medical Associates after her dance career ended.  She continued to support the next generations of Harrison Studio dancers in their art, attending shows and teaching classes when she was able.  Dance was life for Sharon and she inspired many young girls to pursue their dance dreams.

Sharon is loved and missed greatly by her family and hundreds of people she kept in touch with over the years.

An evening visitation will be held from 6 to 8 pm on Thursday, October 3rd as well as a morning visitation from 9:45 to 11:15 am on Friday, October 4th at the James J. Terry Funeral Home, 736 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12 noon on Friday, October 4th at St. Joseph Church, 332 Manor Ave., Downingtown.

Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Downingtown.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Sharon’s name be made to the H. Lee Moffitt Center for Cancer & Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive Tampa , FL 33612 or at give.moffitt.org

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