Sharon (Ruszala) Maher

Sharon B. (Ruszala) Maher, 67 of Worcester passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 23, 2019 after becoming ill while visiting her daughter in Florida for Christmas.
Sharon is survived by her three devoted children, Kelly A. Tremba, her husband Gregory and their children, Sydney and Austin with whom she lived; Courtney L. Maher of Tampa, Florida; and Worcester Police Sergeant Ryan J. Maher of Worcester; her brother, Thomas Ruszala of Seattle, Washington; and her sister, Marcia Handy and her husband Patrick of El Paso, Texas; her former husband, Dr. Jeffrey Maher of Holden; and nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends. Sharon was born in Worcester, and her parents, Edward and Veronica (Mazur) Ruszala are deceased. Sharon lived in Worcester, attended St. Mary’s Elementary School, and graduated from Doherty Memorial High School.
Sharon worked for the Seniors Helping Seniors Company. She found her calling in life as an aide to senior citizens. She was dedicated to unselfishly helping them in every way possible, to make their lives better; and in turn she was admired and loved by them for the time and help she so generously gave them. Earlier in life, she worked for the former Worcester City Hospital in the emergency room.
A quiet, introspective and selfless person, Sharon always placed the needs of other people or lost animals ahead of her own interests. She was a critter collector since she was able to walk, and often brought home to Sterling Street, whatever stray cats she thought needed love and a meal. She was an accomplished cook and especially liked preparing her Polish cuisine, or any dish that warmed up her family or visitors. Sharon’s home always had an open door for any family, friend, or neighbor; and it was gathering center for an incalculable number of kids throughout the years. Sharon was a Super Mom before the time of super moms. She always loved her children unconditionally, and as they grew into adults, her pride in their character, kindness and success was like the warmth of a summer day. Her grandchildren, Sydney and Austin, was the ever-burning fireball of love and pride in her heart. When her son Ryan was promoted to Sergeant in the Worcester Police Department, Sharon’s pride shot higher than the moon. When her daughter Courtney became a private pilot, Sharon’s beaming pride could light up the city. Sharon was beyond words in describing her unfathomable love, admiration and appreciation to her first born, Kelly, who was a God send in helping her through life’s tougher challenges.
Friends and relatives are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, January 4, 2020, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It will be followed by a prayer service in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Burial will be private. Memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Treasure Hunt Farm Foundation for Animals, P.O. Box 696, Rutland, MA. 01543.