Sharon Sue Knoth; ‘Faces of Caring’ Chairwoman, 52

Sharon Sue Knoth, a volunteer at Children’s Hospital of Orange County, died this week. She was 52.

Knoth, a 17-year resident of Lake Forest, began volunteering at the hospital in 1988 and was chairwoman of the “Faces of Caring” campaign which raised more than $25,000 for the new hospital building.

Before returning to college in the 1980s, Knoth was a successful real estate agent, first with Newport Beach real estate developer John Hooten, then with Johnston Properties, a nationwide property management firm of which she eventually became regional vice president.

Knoth gave up her real estate career to spend more time with her family and to attend Saddleback College, where she graduated as class valedictorian in 1984.

Knoth was born in South Gate and attended South Gate High School. She is survived by her husband, Robert, five children, four grandchildren, two sisters and her parents.

A memorial fund has been established in Knoth’s memory. Contributions can be made to: Children’s Hospital Foundation Memorial Fund for Sharon Knoth, 455 S. Main St., Orange, Calif. 92668.