Sharon Kaye Peak

Sharon Kaye Peak, 80, passed away peacefully at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in Seattle, WA on March 27th, 2024. Known as Kaye, she infused every moment of her life with an irrepressible spirit that belied her years. Her vibrant personality and youthful perspective were infectious, endearing her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Kaye's zest for life made her a beacon of light and inspiration, bridging communities and touching hearts across generations.

Kaye's journey began on April 7th, 1943, in Kentucky, where she spent the first seven decades of her life. Growing up in Taylorsville, she graduated from Louisville Male High School before furthering her education at Bryant & Stratton Business College, where she earned her degree in Business Machines in 1962. In 1963, she married Carl Gene Peak, and together they raised their daughter in Lawrenceburg, KY. Kaye's dedication to education was evident as she pursued an Associate of Applied Science degree in Accounting from Lasalle Extension University, graduating in 1980. In a courageous leap at the age of 71, Kaye relocated to Seattle, WA, to be closer to her daughter, embracing a new chapter with characteristic determination.

Throughout her life, Kaye found fulfillment in her work. From her early days as a Key Punch Operator at the KY Department of Transportation to her later roles as a Teacher's Aide, co-owner of Peak Insurance Agency, and home care aide at the Anderson County Senior Center, Kaye's commitment to service was unwavering. Even amid the challenges of moving to a new city at the age of 71, she found purpose as a Packing & Assembly worker and later in the Accessibility Department at Seattle Central College, where she continued to make a meaningful impact until a week before her passing.

It certainly cannot go overlooked that Kaye's journey as a proud Deaf individual began at 11 months old when she lost her hearing due to Rubella. Remarkably, her family only discovered her deafness when she was four years old. Despite the absence of modern resources like interpreters or closed captioning, Kaye navigated through life with resilience and determination. Guided by her mother, she learned to speak, adapting to a world that often overlooked the needs of Deaf individuals. It wasn't until she immersed herself in a community of Deaf peers at school that she discovered the rich language of sign language, unlocking new avenues of communication and connection. Throughout her life, Kaye's accomplishments stood as a testament to the strength and ingenuity of the Deaf community, inspiring others to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams.

Around the age of 50, she embraced her Deaf identity in full force. She became a leader in the Kentucky Deaf community and was president of the Fern Creek Deaf Club for many years.  While in KY she also became involved with the ministry “Hands in Service” which was a collaboration of different churches that traveled around signing spiritual songs and helping homeless people.  Kaye dedicated 15 years of her life to the Deaf ministry, particularly through her involvement with Hands In Service. Throughout her journey, she traversed Kentucky and beyond, passionately sharing her testimony and advocating for Deaf evangelism. Kaye's commitment made her a steadfast pillar in the ministry, touching the lives of countless individuals in both Deaf and hearing communities. When she moved to Seattle, Kaye became a member of the Puget Sound Association of the Deaf and remained active in the Deaf community until the end of her life.  She loved American Sign Language because it was a language that truly gave her full access to the world around her. From her involvement with the Fern Creek Deaf Club and "Hands in Service" ministry in Kentucky, to her active participation in the Puget Sound Association of the Deaf in Seattle, Kaye's passion for sign language and Deaf evangelism left an indelible mark on all who crossed her path.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and community contributions, Kaye's love for sports and people was unparalleled. An avid fan of University of Kentucky basketball and the Seahawks football team, she brought joy to countless gatherings with her infectious enthusiasm. Known affectionately as "Mama K" to many, her capacity for kindness and connection knew no bounds.  Even in the end she said, “Tell all the people in the world that I love them.”  This speaks profoundly to who she was. Her legacy of compassion, service, and advocacy will continue to resonate with those who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Kaye is survived by her daughter, Annette Peak Quiroga, and son-in-law, Jeremy Quiroga. Though she may be physically absent, Kaye Peak's memory will forever be cherished and her impact everlasting.

Her memorial service, “Celebrating the Light of Kaye”, will be held at Hope Community Church (5930 US-127, Frankfort, KY 40601) on Saturday, April 27th 2-3p with a catered lunch provided by the church immediately following the service at 1010 Chico Drive, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342. 
 

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home - 

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