Theresa Marie Steigerwald

Theresa Marie “Terri” Steigerwald, 56, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024 in Syracuse, NY. Born to Frank G. and Marjorie A. (Nagle) Steigerwald on December 6, 1967 in Auburn, Terri devoted her life to others, helping both people and animals. Terri was a 1986 graduate of Port Byron Central School, and a 1988 graduate of Cayuga Community College where she earned her Associates Degree. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Columbia University in 2009, and her Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Oswego in 2011. 

Terri worked her entire career in the medical field beginning as a claims/billing specialist with MetLife Insurance Company, and later as a counselor at Contact Community Services. She was still working as a counselor at Liberty Resources up until the day of her hospitalization. 

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her very large family of relatives, friends, former classmates, co-workers, associates and clients. She is also survived by her two brothers Eric Joseph Steigerwald and his partner Cindy Mills of Naples, NY, and Adam Patrick Steigerwald and his wife Teresa Cappellino of Auburn, NY. 

Terri was predeceased by her very special brother Ivan Mark Steigerwald, in 1981, and her seven furry roommates: Abby, Sabrina, Sylvia, Cinnamon, Petey, Ralphie, and Lily. 

Terri was a very talented artist and writer, creating storybooks with illustrations at a very young age. She studied art at Onondaga Community College in the mid 1990’s. She was also a fan of all things “retro” from 1970’s TV commercials and products to 1980’s music. Terri had an uncanny ability to remember happenings, events and occurrences in great detail. She volunteered her time and energy helping others by working the phone lines for the Suicide Prevention Hotline in Onondaga County and volunteered, as well as donated time and resources at local animal shelters. You can make a big impression, or go through life unseen. Terri made a huge impression on all of those who knew her, worked with her, or whom she helped using her professionalism and generosity. Her laughter, funny stories and her clever sense of humor will be dearly missed. 

If you would like to make a donation with Terri in mind, please, consider a non-monetary gift of food, treats, kitty litter, or toys to your local animal shelter. At Terri’s request, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. 

Arrangements are with White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., 197 South Street, Auburn. To offer condolences, please visit whitechapelfh.com. 

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