Sheryl Rae McAbee

Sheryl Rae McAbee, age 80, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at Aurora BayCare Medical Center, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 8, 1945, in the Village of Suamico, Wisconsin, Sheryl was the cherished daughter of Elmer and Gladys (Brice) Van Hoosen. She grew up in the countryside, where she developed a lifelong love for horses and spent joyful winters skating on the pond with friends. A talented baton twirler, Sheryl proudly performed in parades and competitions. She also played a lively polka on her accordion and loved dancing in her poodle skirt, lovingly sewn by her mother.

At just 17 years old, Sheryl married the love of her life, Ronald Rae McAbee, on May 5, 1962. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage. Sheryl's greatest dream was to be a devoted wife and mother, and she fulfilled that dream with grace and joy.

Sheryl found happiness in the simple pleasures of life-collecting cookbooks, spending time with family, and sharing her love of cooking. Her famous zucchini bread and beloved Hobo Casserole were staples at family gatherings. She enjoyed camping and snowmobiling, and was an avid bowler, earning trophies and even achieving two perfect 300 games. Seeing her name in the newspaper for her bowling accomplishments brought her great pride.

She also loved playing cards and was affectionately known as the Queen of Queens at the table. Her competitive spirit and sharp mind made her a formidable opponent, and her laughter and warmth made every game memorable.

Though she didn't work outside the home for much of her life, Sheryl found joy in her role behind the meat counter at Copps grocery store, where she worked for many years-some of them alongside her grandson-in-law, Jared. Her warm smile, helpful advice, and delicious recipes earned her a loyal following of customers.

Sheryl's greatest treasures were her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her newly born great-great-grandchild. In her final days, she was blessed to witness and commemorate five generations of her family in a cherished photo.

She is survived by her children: Scott McAbee, Jodi Schulke (Gary, whom she was proud to call son), Michael McAbee, Robert McAbee, and Todd McAbee, as well as Joy Ruelle (Greg), whom she loved and though of as a daughter. Her grandchildren include Jessica Reinheimer (Jared), Krystal Oleyniczak (Elliot Goltz), Sheila, James, Adam, and Alexa McAbee. She shared a special bond with her great-grandchildren: Austin, Aleyra, Eliza, and Devyn.

Sheryl is also survived by her sisters-in-law: Lydia (DeeDee) Yanda, Julie McAbee, Pauline McAbee, and Joan Van Hoosen, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Ronald, her brothers Dale and Terry, her grandson Keith Shaha, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law: Norbert, Louis (Buck), Roger, Donald McAbee, Shan Symonik, Nancy Kust, and Dennis Yanda.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N 10th St, De Pere, Wisconsin, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. A prayer service will be held at 1:00 PM, officiated by Fr. Richard Getchel, followed by burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Sheryl's legacy of love, laughter, and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.