The Howze family will celebrate the life of Sharon Howze this week, more than a month after her tragic passing on June 8.

Howze, the wife of former Turlock City Councilmember Ted Howze, died suddenly after taking part in the five-mile charity Udder Run in Hilmar. Sharon Howze, an experienced runner who had completed marathons, collapsed near the end of the race.

Sharon Howze was transported to Emanuel Medical Center, where she died later that afternoon. She was 44.

The cause of death remains unknown, though temperatures did reach 108 degrees in Hilmar that day.

The celebration of life will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Howze residence. The celebration will have the theme of “Everything Chocolate” in honor of Sharon Howze's favorite food.

“Please bring along your favorite chocolate treat to share and join with her four men as we enjoy some laughter and good memories of a beloved daughter, wife & mother,” Ted Howze wrote in a Facebook post announcing the gathering.