Sheila Wiza Runquist

Sheila was born in Waukesha and raised in West Allis, Wisconsin to the late Raymond and Helen Wiza. The Wiza house in Sheila’s youth was frequently filled with family, friends, food, laughter and fun. Her love of card playing and all family games, particularly Spoons, was shaped and nurtured in her youth by her Mom and Dad but was carried through her life. She was a fun, caring, and kind person who built and maintained lasting relationships with family and friends.

Sheila graduated from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1983 with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and a lifelong passion for the Badgers. Her Alpha Chi Omega friends were cherished and remained a big part of her life. As a member and former captain of the Wisconsin Badger Dance Line, Sheila loved all sporting events but football at Camp Randall held a special place in her heart.

After graduation, Sheila moved to Pittsburgh to work as a buyer for Kaufmann’s Department store. She moved to Minnesota in 1986 to work for Dayton’s . Sheila continued to work in the fashion industry as a sales rep for Danskin, and Liz Claiborne. Later she worked for Innsbrook and School Tool Box until she retired.

Sheila married her beloved husband Rick Runquist in 1989 and soon became a favorite sister in law and aunt with the Runquist family. Sheila was a devoted wife to Rick and mother to Peter (Martina), Melissa, Lauren, and grandmother to cherished baby Sofia. Sheila loved spending time with family and friends as the supreme hostess and party planner. She was an excellent cook who served delicious food with such joy and grace. Her fun filled personality and laugh were contagious to everyone around her. She loved to bake Christmas cookies with her kids, fall canning and salsa making with family and friends, crafting the latest craze and growing beautiful flowers and vegetables. Trips and travel with family and friends were unforgettable and will provide many happy memories for everyone. Sheila was known for finding loving and fun gifts to celebrate birthdays, holidays and any special occasion.

As the ever involved Mom and church member, Sheila volunteered her time and talents to many organizations including the Woodbury schools where her children were active in many sports. Sheila was a member at St. Ambrose Catholic Church where she taught Sunday School, Confirmation, and worked at the Catholic Charities food kitchen.

Sheila is survived by her husband Rick, son Peter (Martina), daughters Melissa and Lauren, granddaughter Sofia, and furry companion Mocha. She will be missed by many family members, neighbors and dear friends.

As a lung cancer patient, Sheila became involved with A Breath of Hope Lung Cancer Foundation, participating in the Lung Cancer Walk & Run event. This year Team Sheila will join the walk on August 9th starting at the Lake Harriet Bandshell at 9:00 am. Please register to join us or donate in her memory to

Team Sheila https://support.abreathofhope.org/site/TR/Events/General?px=1029894&pg=personal&fr_id=1060

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, August 11, 2025 at 11:30 am with visitation from 10:00-11:30 am, all at St. Ambrose Church, 4125 Woodbury Dr., Woodbury, MN 55129.

May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth her legacy of love, compassion, and kindness in all that we do.