Sheryl Retlewski
1948 - 2025
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Share Sheryl Retlewski's obituary with others.
Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
Sheryl Ann Retlewski (née Heidt), age 77, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, in Bay City, Michigan. Born on April 7, 1948, in Bay City, she remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped her life and where she touched so many others with her warmth, creativity, and unwavering kindness.
Sheryl was the beloved wife of Bill Retlewski and a devoted mother to Michael Prime and Dawn Hughes. She also embraced her role as stepmother to Holly Velding (Brad). Her love extended deeply to her grandchildren: Michael (Brittany) Prime, Hana Prime, Gracelyn Prime, Aiyana Prime, William Cody Hughes, Terrance Alan Hughes, Anna Velding, and Peyton Velding. Sheryl was also blessed with great-grandchildren Amir Prime, Zola Prime, Isla Prime, and twins Theo and Miya Prime. She shared a close bond with her sister Barbie Gourd (Charlie), as well as her cherished nieces and nephew: Jeremiah (Jennifer) Gourd, Alyssa Gourd Vermeesch, and Mariah Gourd.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Mary Lou Heidt, and her brother Julius Heidt.
Sheryl's family meant the world to her. As one of her grandsons beautifully expressed: "She taught what true riches were on this earth—that the love you give and the love you receive are what matters most." Her home was a sanctuary of love where generations gathered to share stories, laughter, meals from the garden she so lovingly tended, and moments that will be treasured forever.
A gifted self-taught artist with an eye for beauty in the everyday, Sheryl transformed ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art. Whether painting wall murals or decorating dried gourds and rocks with intricate designs inspired by nature, she brought joy to those around her through her creativity. Her artistic spirit extended beyond canvas—she could find something discarded and turn it into something beautiful that others cherished.
Her passion for gardening was equally profound. Sheryl found peace among wildflowers and greenery; digging in the dirt brought her joy. She was instrumental in creating the Special Olympics Memorial Garden at the Riverwalk—a lasting tribute to both nature's beauty and human compassion. Through this project and countless others like it, she helped others see the wonder of the natural world.
Professionally and personally dedicated to caring for others, Sheryl worked for several years at Rachel Sovereign Home. Even after stepping down from employment there due to health reasons, she continued visiting regularly—bringing joy through Bingo games and companionship to residents she lovingly referred to as "her ladies." Her connection with them endured far beyond job titles or responsibilities.
Service was a cornerstone of Sheryl's life. She volunteered faithfully at Food of Faith in Bay City—always ready to lend a hand even when facing challenges of her own health. Her generosity knew no bounds; she gave not only time but heart wherever it was needed most.
Sheryl's faith was a guiding light throughout her life. Her church family held a special place in her heart—offering strength during difficult times and celebration during joyful ones. That same faith now comforts those who mourn her passing.
To know Sheryl was to feel seen and loved. Her radiant smile could light up any room; her presence brought comfort; her kindness left lasting impressions on all who crossed paths with her. She had many dear friends from all walks of life who will remember her laughter, wisdom, compassion—and above all—the way she made them feel valued.
Though Sheryl has departed this earthly life, the legacy she leaves behind is vibrant: gardens blooming with color; artwork gracing homes; memories etched into hearts; lessons about love that will echo through generations.
May Sheryl Ann Retlewski's memory be a blessing—and may we carry forward the light she so generously shared with us all. A Visitation will be held on October 25, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5141 Kasemeyer Road. A Memorial Service will be held on October 25, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 02:00 PM at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5141 Kasemeyer Road
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Sheryl's memory to:
Food of Faith, Bay City
Rachel Soverign Home, Bay City
Sheryl was the beloved wife of Bill Retlewski and a devoted mother to Michael Prime and Dawn Hughes. She also embraced her role as stepmother to Holly Velding (Brad). Her love extended deeply to her grandchildren: Michael (Brittany) Prime, Hana Prime, Gracelyn Prime, Aiyana Prime, William Cody Hughes, Terrance Alan Hughes, Anna Velding, and Peyton Velding. Sheryl was also blessed with great-grandchildren Amir Prime, Zola Prime, Isla Prime, and twins Theo and Miya Prime. She shared a close bond with her sister Barbie Gourd (Charlie), as well as her cherished nieces and nephew: Jeremiah (Jennifer) Gourd, Alyssa Gourd Vermeesch, and Mariah Gourd.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Mary Lou Heidt, and her brother Julius Heidt.
Sheryl's family meant the world to her. As one of her grandsons beautifully expressed: "She taught what true riches were on this earth—that the love you give and the love you receive are what matters most." Her home was a sanctuary of love where generations gathered to share stories, laughter, meals from the garden she so lovingly tended, and moments that will be treasured forever.
A gifted self-taught artist with an eye for beauty in the everyday, Sheryl transformed ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art. Whether painting wall murals or decorating dried gourds and rocks with intricate designs inspired by nature, she brought joy to those around her through her creativity. Her artistic spirit extended beyond canvas—she could find something discarded and turn it into something beautiful that others cherished.
Her passion for gardening was equally profound. Sheryl found peace among wildflowers and greenery; digging in the dirt brought her joy. She was instrumental in creating the Special Olympics Memorial Garden at the Riverwalk—a lasting tribute to both nature's beauty and human compassion. Through this project and countless others like it, she helped others see the wonder of the natural world.
Professionally and personally dedicated to caring for others, Sheryl worked for several years at Rachel Sovereign Home. Even after stepping down from employment there due to health reasons, she continued visiting regularly—bringing joy through Bingo games and companionship to residents she lovingly referred to as "her ladies." Her connection with them endured far beyond job titles or responsibilities.
Service was a cornerstone of Sheryl's life. She volunteered faithfully at Food of Faith in Bay City—always ready to lend a hand even when facing challenges of her own health. Her generosity knew no bounds; she gave not only time but heart wherever it was needed most.
Sheryl's faith was a guiding light throughout her life. Her church family held a special place in her heart—offering strength during difficult times and celebration during joyful ones. That same faith now comforts those who mourn her passing.
To know Sheryl was to feel seen and loved. Her radiant smile could light up any room; her presence brought comfort; her kindness left lasting impressions on all who crossed paths with her. She had many dear friends from all walks of life who will remember her laughter, wisdom, compassion—and above all—the way she made them feel valued.
Though Sheryl has departed this earthly life, the legacy she leaves behind is vibrant: gardens blooming with color; artwork gracing homes; memories etched into hearts; lessons about love that will echo through generations.
May Sheryl Ann Retlewski's memory be a blessing—and may we carry forward the light she so generously shared with us all. A Visitation will be held on October 25, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5141 Kasemeyer Road. A Memorial Service will be held on October 25, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 02:00 PM at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5141 Kasemeyer Road
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Sheryl's memory to:
Food of Faith, Bay City
Rachel Soverign Home, Bay City
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sheryl Retlewski, please visit our flower store.
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