On May 2, 2014 we lost our sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. At the same time the good Lord and the Heavens welcomed an angel. Sheryl was born in Corvallis, Oregon on March 30, 1955 to Richard and Patricia (Tremaine) Toepfer. She grew up in Woodburn and went to grade school and graduated from Woodburn High School. Sheryl loved being a part of the Highliner Dance Team in High School.
In 1976 she met Thomas Toscano at the University of Oregon Hospital in Portland, OR. The running family joke was when Tom and Sheryl met at the hospital Tom couldn’t see and Sheryl couldn’t talk. At the time Sheryl worked at Plush Pippin in Portland and every time Tom had to travel over to Oregon for eye check-ups he would visit his sweetheart and enjoy a piece of strawberry pie. This is where their journey began.
On May 7, 1977 they were married in Portland and shortly after moved to Montana. In Billings, Sheryl worked at Butler’s Kitchen for a year. Then Sheryl and Tom moved to Livingston where she worked for Mountain Bell Phone Company. In 1980 their son Jeff was born. Jeff was the treasure of Sheryl’s life. She always said she was so lucky to have had him.
In 1982 the family moved to Colstrip, MT. Sheryl had a passion for exercising. In her early years in Colstrip she taught Rhythmic Aerobics. For many years she spent countless hours involved with the Coal and Cattle Players and Miss Colstrip/Miss Montana Pageants. She had a deep love in the Lord and the Catholic Church was very important to her. She was the music director there for many years, sang and played the piano for church services where she made numerous friendships. Sheryl had a special love for children and worked for the Colstrip Schools as a substitute teacher, teacher’s aide, and computer lab teacher.
In 1999, Sheryl gained the daughter that she never had when Jeff brought Audra into her life. This was followed by the birth of her two grandsons Slade and Blake. These two boys meant the world to her, they were her everything. There are no words that could express how much love she had for them. She was so proud to be their Nana.
Some of her other interest and hobbies were miniature Schnauzers, Ford Mustangs, music concerts, cross country skiing, love of nature, and riding her bike.
She was such a positive person, caring, friendly, selfless, and generous. If you knew Sheryl you knew she always had a bubbly personality.
She is survived by her husband Tom, father Richard, sister, Christine (Mark) Tubra and their daughter Janell and their grandson Preston, son Jeff (Audra) Toscano, grandsons Slade and Blake Toscano, uncle Virgil (Lorena) Toepfer, aunt Dolores Hutchings,cousins Scott Hutchings and his daughter Sloan, Chip (Carrie) Hutchings and their children Elsie and Riley, Lori Hutchings, Debbie (James) Prinslow, and their son Travis, Kimberly Toepfer, Michelle Stensen.
Sheryl is preceded in death by her mother, Patricia, cousin Deanna Toepfer, maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents.
Special Thanks to Jen Thuesen, and Alecia Besel.
In lieu of flowers memorial may be made in Sheryl’s name to www.donatelife.net you have the power to contribute to those who need or have had transplants or register to be an organ/eye/tissue donor.
Visitation will be Friday, May 9, 2014 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish in Colstrip. A Vigil Service will be Friday, May 9, 2014 at 7:00 PM in the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish in Colstrip. Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 10, 2014 at 11:00 AM in the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish in Colstrip. Burial will follow services in the Colstrip Cemetery. Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolences may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Service Schedule
Visitation
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Friday May 9, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Vigil Service
7:00 PM
Friday May 9, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 AM
Saturday May 10, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Rite of Committal
Following Services
Saturday May 10, 2014
Colstrip Cemetery
Colstrip, MT 59323
Luncheon
Following Graveside
Saturday May 10, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Service Schedule
Visitation
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Friday May 9, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Vigil Service
7:00 PM
Friday May 9, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 AM
Saturday May 10, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Rite of Committal
Following Services
Saturday May 10, 2014
Colstrip Cemetery
Colstrip, MT 59323
Luncheon
Following Graveside
Saturday May 10, 2014
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish
Colstrip, MT 59323
Share
pat & george riedel says
Toscano Family: I am so sorry for your loss. Sheryl will be greatly missed and I will miss her smiles to everybody at the store.
Pat Riedel
Bob & Diane Henriksen says
Sheryl will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathies to Tom and all of Sheryl’s family. May God give you comfort and peace.
Bob & Diane Henriksen
Sheri Sukut says
My dear friend, I am missing you already. I am really going to miss our daily chats! You are no longer suffering and for that i am grateful. My sincere sorrow to Tom, Jeff, and family. Love you guys, Sheri
Lisa Eastin Malloy says
Such a special woman and friend. Growing up you gave me such strength and courage. So many wonderful memories that I will always cherish. You and your contagious smile and laugh will always be in my heart. Sending love and prayers to your loving husband Tom and family.
Hugs and prayers,
Lisa
Hull Family says
Heaven gained a true Angel. She will forever be missed for her kind spirit and wonderful personality and she was an angel here on earth to help and touch the lives of so many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family as they go through this difficult time. Love, Brian and Leslie Hull
Donnie and Paula Peplow says
Our heartfelt sympathy to Tom, Jeff and Family. Your loss runs deep but find comfort that Sheryl is looking down pain free with a smile on her face embracing her family. May the Lord comfort you in your time of loss.
Bron Barthule says
Tom and Jeff please accept my deepest sympathy. Sheryl will be so greatly missed. I have such great memories of Sheryl. Working the pageants with her was a hoot. Her infectious smile, laugh, and zest for life will be forever in my heart.
Kaye Kelly says
Sheryl was a very special friend, if it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t of meet my best friend Dale Medved. I have such great memories of the 3 of us working on pageants, staying at my home with a bunch of girls. Tom and Jeff my special thoughts and prayers go out to you at this sad time. Please know that meant a lot to me and my memories will be with me forever.
Boni and Gary Eernisse says
There will certainly be large void in the town of Colstrip with Sheryl’s passing. She always had a kind, compassionate word and a sweet smile for others even though she was going through some difficult times in her own life. I pray for peace and comfort for her family and that we all can celebrate a life well lived in our memories of her.
Britney Allen and Family says
Sheryl always had the best smile and always asked me how me and the kids we’re doing. Such a sweet lady. She will be missed.
Leah Schmirler-Flaten says
Your smile, zest for of life, love of children and giving spirit are the treasures you have given to so many. Theses gifts live on in your memory. My warm and healing thoughts are sent to all she touched, especially Tom,
Jeff and Family.
Kathy & Jeff Pimley says
What a fantastic lady Heaven gained. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Toscano family in this most difficult time.
Debbie Skiles says
Tom, Jeff & Audra and sons and the rest of Sheryl’s family, we are so sorry for the passing of our dear friend Sheryl. She was so kind and loving and always had a smile for everyone. Sheryl will be greatly missed. Hugs, thoughts and prayers to all of you. Love, Doug & Debbie & Callie Skiles
Laurie and Bill Neumiller says
Sheryl – your beautiful spirit will be missed by so many. You touched lives with your thoughtfulness, generosity, music, and love for everyone. You always found time to visit and share a laugh or a story – I’ll miss you. My thoughts and prayers for comfort go out to Tom, Jeff, Audra and family.
Deb Peters says
I’m so sad for all of us who will miss Sheryl’s sweet smile and loving personality. I truly enjoyed the years I worked with her at PBES and looked forward to visiting with her whenever our paths crossed. At the same time I know that Sheryl’s health battles are blessedly at end. Wherever I see the brightest star in the night sky I will feel sure that Sheryl is beaming blessings from above to all those left behind. My heart goes out to you all, Tom, Jeff, & Audra. May the wonderful memories bring you solace as you heal from this loss.
Bo, Gary & Jaycee Lyon says
Sheryl…you will be missed here in Colstrip and I will cherish the memories from Coal & Cattle Players…as well as our friendship which grew from those many years ago…! My most recent visits were with you this winter…chatting over the scarves and you looked so good..! This sudden turn is a shock as it is for so many..! Prayers for all of Sheryl’s family…Tom, Jeff, Audra & the boys…Chris Tubra…Sheryl’s big sister and all of her close friends…as the days ahead will be difficult…as I know from my loss of loved ones..! May God grant you peace and be at your side during this time of need…cherish your memories and know she no longer is in pain…! We will all remember your beautiful smile…Sheryl…RIP
Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Our sincerest sympathy to all of your family. I certainly remember our days when we were in Colstrip and how Sheryl was so dedicated to the church and to the whole community. Know that you are in our prayers and may you find it comforting to know that we will see our loved ones again. God bless you,
Mary and Jolyn Dillon
Darla and Wade Colter says
There are no words that will make this pain go away, if there were we all would want to say them. Sheryl was a blessing. She touched so many, kids in the school district, friends at church, and her family. We will miss her and pray for her family.
Loveridge Family says
Sheryl’s love for her family, church and community will be missed. We will miss your beautiful spirit. God bless you Tom, Jeff, Audra, Slade, and family. Ray and Twila, Melissa and Adia.
Ken and Jeane Stokes says
Tom and Jeff and family,
Sorry for your lose is so inadequate at a time lime this.
Cheryl will be missed by everyone who knew her.
The world lost a true Angel, but Heaven gained one..
Robert and Lois Olmstead says
Tom and family – our thoughts and prayers are with you. So thankful for the years of precious memories you have to carry you in the days ahead.
Joe & Sharon Buckner says
There are no words of comfort when your hearts are broken. May God’s peace be with you now and in the days ahead. So very sorry for your loss of Sheryl. She was a lovely lady.
Mark Huisenga and Tamie Yarnall says
Our condolences to Tom, Jeff, and family! We still treasure the time we spent working/playing alongside Sheryl, in many Coal and Cattle Country Players’ productions. Sheryl’s infectious humor, delivered with precision aim, helped keep us all chuckling (and on our toes)!
Rest in Peace, Sheryl.
Williams Family says
Condolences to the Toscano family. May Jehovah the “God of Comfort” bring you comfort and peace at this difficult time (2 Corinthians 1:3 & 4). Your family are in our prayers.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
So Sorry for your loss. Our Prayers are with you during this time.
Mike & Geri Cadwell says
We are very sorry for your loss, it also creates a void in Colstrip.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal”
From a headstone in Ireland
J Johnson says
Dear family of Sheryl A. Toscano – I am sorry to hear of your loss. May the Creator give you peace through his sure promise to comfort us (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). Cherish all the happy memories of Mrs. Toscano and I hope you are consoled by Bible promises (John 17:3).
Terry McKay says
So sorry to hear of the loss of such a dear young women who meant so much to so many. Condolences to all her Family and close friends. I went to school with Sheryl and always knew her to be smiling. Now she is an Angel smiling down on us all.RIP our dear friend! We Love you.
Dave and Mary Jensen says
Our thoughts and prayers are with Sheryl’s family. Sheryl was a wonderful person in everything she did and always with a smile. She will be greatly missed by many.
Ben and Georgina Phipps says
Tom, Jeff and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Sheryl is such a wonderful and amazing woman. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We love you.
Love, Ben, Georgina, Ruthann and John Phipps
Jeanne Fredrickson says
I knew Sheryl mostly as a classmate in high school. She was one who could light up your day, always bubbly and she never knew a stranger and was always ready to help in any capacity. It sounds like her “new” hometown in Colstrip had her heart and a mutual love for each other. She will be missed. My condolences and love to Her family and friends and for old times sakes, Sheryl …………GO BULLDOGS! ♥
JanelleTubra says
Sheryl, Preston and I will miss you extremely. I wish we could be there with all the family. I know your not in pain anymore. And I feel a little better knowing your looking out for us. I love you Auntie!! XOXOXO
Melissa (Nygaard) Fisher says
Such a kind lady! I truly enjoyed getting to know her more over the past year!!! (((HUGS))) and prayers from our family to yours.
Joe and Grace Josserand says
To Tom and family Sheryl was such a wonderful and loving person, one couldn’t help but smile when you stopped to talk to her. She always had time to say Hi and filled you in on what was going on in her life. I will always remember our bowling days and the fun we had. Sheryl was a very good friend and she will be missed by many. Our prayers are with you and the family.
Jay and Deb Terrett says
Tom, Jeff and Audra..
We didn’t have the honor of knowing Sheryl as long as most here in Colstrip…but her open and warm personality made one feel like they had known her forever. For me, Sheryl was the epitome of faith and courage. She faced her health challenges with good humor and always FAITH in God’s love for her…..and now she is in the presence of that one great Love….May that same Love hold you close in comfort and peace.
Lindie Gibson says
oh Tom… I am in shock… What can I say… I had just been on facebook with Sheryl last week, and am in shock from just reading her obituary in the Billings Gazette…. God bless your heart…. I am so sorry for your loss….. What a great gals she was and I was so glad to see you guys when you were in town…. love, lindie
clarke elliott says
Wow !!! I am on way down to see you both , and to work . ill see you on Friday. ( so sorry) Clarke elliott
Dale and Gloria Guidi says
Tom
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Your Loved One. May God Bless You and Strengthen
You in this time of sorrow.
Dale and Gloria
Hank and Dona Poeschl says
Tom and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Sheryl. Although we didn’t know her well, she was obviously an incredible person that had a positive effect on so many, What a testament to her life to see how much everyone loved her. This will be a very difficult time, especially for you, Tom. We will think of you often as you walk the rest of your journey without your sweetheart.
Warmly,
Hank and Dona
Larry & Joanne Schrupp says
Tom, Jeff, Audra & boys,
Sheryl was unfailingly kind, thoughtful and ready with a smile. She faced her own challenges with optimism and a cheerful spirit. I carry many fond memories of her from aerobics to Coal & Cattle to Miss Montana. Seeing Tom & Sheryl on your way to Mannheim Steamroller is special because she was so excited about the evening of holiday music. May your faith in our risen Savior sustain you and bring you some peace. Our prayers are with you.
Sarah Schaefer Ramage says
Tom and family,
So sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Sheryl will hold a spot in the hearts of many for years to come. She was a very special person.
Sarah
Joby and Bill Parker says
Sheryl was the most kind , generous and loving person. It was a pleasure to spend two years in Tempus getting to know her. She will be missed by so many.
Blessings and our deepest sympathy to you Tom and your family.
Jeff & Jeanne Shipstead says
May the Creator hold you all in the palm of His hand at this sad time-as He so gently holds Sheryl.
Ben & Thelma Lewis says
Sheryl was a lovely person, so friendly and kind. We feel blessed to have known her. Our sympathy to her family.
Joe & Loy Martens says
Tom, Jeff and family – So sorry to hear about Sheryl. She will be missed. She always had a kind word and a quick smile and laugh. Take some comfort knowing that she is in a better place and you will all see her again someday.
Cindy and Tom Hogg says
Tom, Jeff and family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. I first met Sheryl at Mountain Bell. What a wonderful person. I never met a nicer one. I was so happy to reconnect via Facebook with her. She will be sorely missed and I want you to know how much we care and are thinking of you in this time. I loved, loved, loved hearing her laugh. We had so many fun times at Ma Bell.
Fr. Paschal says
My prayers are with you Tom and family.
I remember the dedication Sherly had for the music ministry at St. Margaret Mary’s and felt the parish was blessed to have such a faithful musician. She always welcomed me when I had the joy of coming there for Mass. Peace and Goodness.
irenelane says
To Tom and family My thoughts and prayers are with at this time. May God be with
you and bring you Peace
irenelane says
To Tom and family My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. MayGod be with
you and bring you Peace
Ted and Sandy Williams says
Sheryl was such a neat lady. We enjoyed our conversations with her at class of 72 gatherings. We did not know her well but her love for Tom always showed. We know that she will be missed. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marie Kluver and Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sheryl always made you feel welcome no matter where you saw her.