Born in Starbuck, Minnesota to Alfred and Alice (Hendrickson) Aaberg in 1940, Sharon was the older sister to equally amazing Judy and Kathy. The three together were affectionately known as the “Aaberg girls”.

Sharon graduated from Starbuck High School in 1958 and attended McCallister College in St. Paul, MN. There, she met the love of her life, Donald “Craig” Bucher. They were married in September 1960, and a 62-year love story began. She was blessed with three children: Mark, Paul and Heather.

After receiving her degree in 1975, Sharon began her career at the Washington County Bulletin in Cottage Grove, MN where she truly excelled in advertising sales. In 1982, Sharon and Craig took a leap of faith, cashed in his 20-year teaching pension, and purchased their first newspaper, The Banner Journal in Black River Falls, WI. They explained the gamble simply by saying they didn’t want to get old and gray to wonder, “What if?”.

Sharon was fearless in reporting. She covered everything from violent crime to city council and school board meetings to sporting events. She developed multiple articles highlighting topics including domestic abuse, discrimination and child welfare. She worked with hospital staff, law enforcement and social workers to help educate people about the types and signs of abuse, and the resources available for help.

In partnership with the La Crosse Tribune, her reporting helped lead to the termination and prosecution of county officials for corruption.

In 1988, Sharon and Craig bought the Cumberland Advocate. They continued their tireless work at the paper, developed a strong social network of friends, and worshipped at Augustana Lutheran Church.

Upon retirement, Sharon’s passion for travel resulted in many cruises as well as countless trips throughout the U.S. and abroad. Always accompanied by Craig, their love story flourished with every new adventure.

Sharon will long be remembered for her kindness, philanthropy, and her faith in God and family.

She is preceded in death by her parents Alfred and Alice Aaberg, and her beloved husband Craig. She is survived by her sisters Judy (Marshall Moe) and Kathy (Gary Engler), children Mark, Paul (Sarah) and Heather (George), grandchildren Isaac, Nick, Chris, and Colin, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A small, private funeral is planned in Starbuck, MN, with internment at Fron Lutheran Cemetery to follow.

Last Update: Sep 16, 2024 2:30 pm CDT