Sharon Brentrup

Sharon Brentrup, 81, passed away on February 22, 2026, in Bismarck, ND.

Sharon Faye Johnson was born on February 12, 1945, to Owen and Helga Johnson. Growing up near Glenburn, ND, she spent many happy hours helping to tend the family’s large garden and spending time with extended family at Lake Metigoshe, where she successfully learned to waterski (unfortunately an ankle injury kept this from being a lifelong hobby). She graduated from Minot High in 1963 and Minot State College in 1968, after which she served in the Peace Corps in the Philippines. After returning to North Dakota, she completed nursing school at St. Luke’s in Fargo in 1979 before moving to Bismarck in 1982.

She dedicated many decades to her career as a Registered Nurse in the Bismarck Hospital/Medcenter One/Sanford Medical Center Rehabilitation unit. Her gentle demeanor and sly sense of humor left a lasting impression on colleagues and patients alike.

Sharon enjoyed the simpler pleasures in life. Lunch dates with her children were a frequent treat. She was an artist in many media, especially enjoying crocheting, knitting, cross-stitching and “playing with watercolors”. She loved spending time outdoors gardening, cruising a bicycle path, kayaking, or hiking. She was proud to reach the top of Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota, at age 53. Camping occupied many summer days. Her favorite trips were to Yellowstone National Park, which captured her heart when she worked her first job in 1965 as a kitchen helper there. A devoted reader, she could regularly be found tackling three or four books at a time, usually with one of her many feline friends nearby.

Sharon is survived by her daughters, Andrea Brentrup and Annemarie Brentrup; her sisters, Joyce Grove and Ruby Graff; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Owen and Helga Johnson, and her sisters Joanne Fursteneau and Clarice Polzin.

In accordance with Sharon’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. Those wishing to honor her memory may consider a donation to The Nature Conservancy.