Stephanie Scharf

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and aunt, Stephanie Scharf died in her home in Mishawaka on March 19, 2018 at the age of 67.Stephanie's family remembers her unconventional sense of humor, her boundless generosity, and her dedication to hospitality. She was a strong woman and encouraged her daughters to pursue their goals and dreams. Stephanie was an avid reader and advocate for the disadvantaged. Over the years she worked for the Department of Children and Family Services in Chicago, Planned Parenthood of North Central Indiana, and the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley. She also gave her time and resources to countless other causes. She was an active member of Temple Beth-El and embraced the community she found there.Stephanie was born in Urbana, Illinois to Jane and George Scharf. After college, she earned a master's degree from the Jane Addams College of Social Work in Chicago. In 1975 she married a former high school classmate David Taber, a future oncologist. In the 1980s the couple was thrilled to welcome two daughters, Sarah and Rebeccah, into their home. They have called Michiana home since 1989.Stephanie is survived by her husband of 42 years, David Taber of Mishawaka; daughter, Sarah (Hem) Wadhar of San Francisco; daughter, Rebeccah (Arik) Burgin of Los Angeles; father, George (Lynn) Scharf of Crawfordsville; and sister, Georgeanne Scharf of Champaign, Illinois. Stephanie will especially be missed by her two grandchildren, Sona and Yoni, who were the lights of her life.The funeral is scheduled for Thursday March 22, 3pm at Temple Beth-El in South Bend. Rabbi Companez will officiate and all are welcome to attend. There will be a time to share memories the next day at the family's home in Mishawaka. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance, Post Office Box 32141
New York, NY 10087-2141, or at OCRFA.org.