Theresa Shermer

Theresa Justine Shermer, 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at St. Joseph's Rehabilitation and Care Center in Norfolk, Nebraska.

Born on September 26, 1936 to Woclaw and Ottilie (Schultz) Fornalczyk  in Lodz, Poland, Theresa spent much of her childhood in her mother's homeland of Germany. Immigrating to the United States with her mother, they settled in Sacramento, California. Theresa's fluency in four languages, including English, proved invaluable as she pursued her U.S. citizenship, a source of immense pride for both her and her mother.

Sacramento is where Theresa met Gene Shermer. They married on March 29, 1959, and together built a loving family with three children. Gene's military service necessitated frequent moves, yet Theresa's dedication to faith remained constant. She actively sought out bible study groups or even started them herself, fostering a strong connection wherever they landed.

In 1973, the family settled in Norfolk. In 1986, Theresa realized a lifelong dream with the purchase of The Abbey Christian Bookstore. Together, Theresa and Gene poured their hearts into the business, operating it successfully for fourteen years before retiring.

Beyond her love for faith and family, Theresa was an avid bird watcher, cherishing walks on the Cowboy Trail and time around Skyview Lake.  Her creative spirit shone through in her gardening, cooking, knitting, crocheting, and organ playing.

A pillar of Christ Lutheran Church, Theresa's life embodied faith and service. Regular bible study attendance, volunteering for Meals on Wheels, Team Mates, and Stephen Ministry were hallmarks of her dedication. Her hospitality extended to foreign exchange students and a foster child, reflecting her generous spirit.

Theresa leaves behind a loving legacy. She is survived by her husband Gene; children Russ (Jill) Shermer, Holly (Wade) Jensen, and Jill (Jeff) Verbrugge; grandchildren Alia Shermer, Traci (Kyle) Rowse, Michael Jensen, Lane Jensen, Bode Jensen, Tell Jensen, Hayes Jensen, Kirsten Verbrugge, Aniko Verbrugge, Isobel Verbrugge, and James Verbrugge; and great-grandchildren Bo Rowse and Amelia Rowse.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.

Funeral Services

A celebration of Theresa's life will be held at Christ Lutheran Church on Tuesday, November 26, at 10:30 AM. Reverend Cal Kapels will officiate. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Home for Funerals is providing service arrangements. For online condolences and livestream details, please visit www.homeforfuneralsinc.com. Burial will be in the Christ Lutheran Cemetery near E. Norfolk Avenue.

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