In Loving Memory of Larry Allen Vaughn and Sharon JoAnn Halvorson Vaughn
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sharon JoAnn Halvorson Vaughn and Larry Allen Vaughn, the beloved founders of our real estate team, who were pillars of our community and a testament to love, faith, and dedication.
Sharon JoAnn Halvorson Vaughn went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 23, 2019, at the age of 71. Born in Galveston, Texas to Dan and Catherine Halvorson, Sharon’s early life was filled with a passion for horses. She moved with her family to Grand Junction, Colorado in 1954, where she confirmed her faith in God at the American Lutheran Church. Sharon was an accomplished horsewoman and a champion in various equestrian events. Her leadership and dedication were evident early on, earning her the Queen of the Grand Junction Horse Show title at just 17 years old.
Sharon's path in life led her to Mesa Junior College, where she met her soulmate, Larry Vaughn. They married on September 1, 1968, and together, they embarked on a journey that would forever impact their family, friends, and community. Sharon and Larry’s passion for real estate led them to create the “Vaughn Team,” which later became the successful “VCK Group”. Sharon was a highly respected and successful Broker Associate with Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties for 35 years, earning top rankings nationwide and accolades such as the Coldwell Banker President’s Premier Team award and the Sharon Vaughn Lifetime Achievement Award, presented in her honor.
Sharon’s commitment to her family was unmatched. She was a devoted mother to Kerri (Brian) Bensley, Katie (Jimmy) Kleager, and Todd (Alexi) Vaughn, and a beloved “Nana” to eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Sharon’s love and selflessness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her, and she was cherished as a second mom to many of her children’s friends and teammates. Her life was a shining example of grace, generosity, and service.
Larry Allen Vaughn passed away on October 15, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on April 17, 1947, in Denver, Colorado, Larry’s love for sports, particularly baseball, and the outdoors, defined much of his early life. After moving to Grand Junction to attend Mesa College, he met Sharon, and their shared dream of building a life together became a reality. Larry’s early career in the car rental industry transitioned into real estate, where he and Sharon became pioneers of the real estate market in Grand Junction. Their partnership, both in business and in life, was the foundation for their success. Larry was actively involved in coaching and community organizations, including serving on the board of the Grand Junction Quarterback Club and the Western Slope Quarter Horse Association.
Larry, like Sharon, was a man of deep faith. He embraced his Christian faith with a passion that continued throughout his life, and we take comfort in knowing he is now free in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Larry's personality was infectious, and he was known for his wit, humor, and unwavering generosity. His love for music, particularly the "oldies," and his talent for writing songs—such as his touching tribute “What Does It Mean to Be Free” after 9/11—were just a few of the ways Larry touched the hearts of those around him.
Larry’s love for Sharon, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, as well as his friends, was boundless. His family and friends were the center of his life, and his infectious smile, kindness, and humor will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Sharon and Larry are survived by their three children: Kerri (Brian) Bensley, Katie (Jimmy) Kleager, and Todd (Alexi) Vaughn; their eight grandchildren: Kayla (Nick) Evancich, Jaelyn (Taylor) Ziolkowski, Gage, Jackson, and Jedidiah Kleager, and Ashton, Fischer, and Marley Vaughn; and one great-grandchild, Brynleigh Evancich. Larry is also survived by his sister, Phyllis (Cliff) Knapp.
Together, Sharon and Larry built not just a successful real estate business, but a legacy of love, faith, and service that will live on in the hearts of their family, friends, colleagues, and community. Their impact is immeasurable, and they will forever be remembered as an example of devotion to family, friends, and faith.
Rest in peace, Sharon and Larry. You will be deeply missed but forever cherished.