Sharon E. Schleich

Sharon E. Schleich, age 81, of Winona, MN, and a former long-time resident of Owatonna, MN, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Emplify Health Hospital in La Crosse, WI.

She was born on May 2, 1944, in Austin, MN, to Arnold and Eleanor (Thompson) Baldus. She was a graduate of Pacelli Catholic School and received her associate’s degree from Winona Secretarial School.

Sharon was united in marriage with Richard W. Schleich on July 24, 1965, in Austin, MN, and he preceded her in death on April 16, 2019.

Sharon’s love was family and friends. Whenever any could gather, she would cherish the time.

Her 40+ year career in the travel industry took her across the globe with many trips enjoyed with her husband. Much of her time was with Travel Headquarters and Flying Wheels Travel that focused on coordinating travel arrangements for the disabled.

After their careers, they thoroughly enjoyed wintering in Panama City Beach with friends.

Sharon is survived by her sons: Mike (Kris) Schleich and Tony (Kim) Schleich; seven grandchildren: Calvin (Kalene), Danielle (Taylor) Tullius, Natalie (Hunter) Russeau, Laura, Matthew, Callie and Brittany; great-grandchildren: Jayce, Grayson, Lincoln, Eliza, and Elsie; and her brother, Walter Baldus.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother Darrell and sister Janelle.

Honoring Sharon’s wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona.

The family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to the Winona County Historical Society at https://winonahistory.org/support/donate/

Online condolences or memories may be left for Sharon’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home of Winona is assisting the family with arrangements.