In Memory of

Sharlyn

E.

(Amelin)

Kerbel

Obituary for Sharlyn E. (Amelin) Kerbel

Sharlyn E. (Amelin) Kerbel, a 46-year resident of Auburn, died at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Worcester, surrounded by family after a brief illness on Friday, March 10, 2023. Sharlyn is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Stanley, daughter Marci, and son-in-law David Bostock of Auburn, daughter Christy and son-in-law Derrick Ruth of Rochdale, and adoring grandchildren Connor, Logan, Madelyn, Landon, Jaxon, Charlie and Amelia. Sharlyn, best known by those closest to her as Mimi, was the matriarch of her family and the one with the most genuine heart and smile in any room. She was the absolute best wife, mom, Mimi, and friend.

Sharlyn was born the day after Christmas in 1945 to Charles and Elizabeth “Betty” Amelin of Worcester, MA. Sharlyn was the sister of Charles and his wife Daniela of Claremont, CA, Ken and his wife Joan of South Dennis, MA, and Jeff and his wife Patricia of West Boylston, MA. She is also survived by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law Charles and Mary Kerbel of Upton, MA along with many nieces and nephews. Growing up on Grafton Hill, Sharlyn attended Commerce High School where after school she could often be seen buying a bag of popcorn at the popcorn cart. Popcorn was her favorite! In 1967, known to her generation as the “Summer of Love,'' she met the love of her life, Stanley, who referred to her endearingly as “Shash.” Their young love blossomed to the tune of “Going to San Francisco” by Scott McKenzie, however their true favorite destinations became cruising to Bermuda and other destinations, family trips to Disney and Williamsburg, Virginia, and beautiful summers on Old Silver Beach on Cape Cod with their two girls and often much-extended family and friends. Her family was absolutely everything to her and she led by example in every way. As a devout Catholic, Sharlyn faithfully attended St. Joseph’s Church in Auburn for 30+ years and then to North American Martyrs Church also in Auburn. She never missed the St. Francis Xavier Novena at St. John’s Church in Worcester.

Sharlyn worked as a receptionist for various companies over the years greeting customers and staff with her welcoming smile and positive, cheerful personality, but her greatest role was taking the best care of her beautiful grandchildren on a daily basis for over 19 years. Whether it be 7:30-5 Mimi’s Daycare or school pickup, she was there happily. “No problem!” she would say.

Up at dawn to ensure she got them both in, Mimi took incredible care of herself swimming and walking daily. She loved to shop, she really loved to shop. She bought all things LL Bean and North Face. She loved collecting sea glass to be displayed in various jars throughout their home. As health conscious as she always was, she loved Hebert’s white chocolate.

Mimi will be missed beyond measure and remembered for always being happy and positive, never complaining, never speaking a bad word about anyone and loving her family unconditionally. We will honor her memory by continuously trying to do the same. As Mimi said, “May each day be filled with happiness, good health, kindness, and old fashioned love.”

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Kerbel family from 4 - 7 PM on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn, MA. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM on Friday, March 17, 2023 at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn, followed by burial at St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester.