Colleen Ann Toczylowski

Colleen Ann Toczylowski (née Turner) AKA “Cat” to her many friends, is survived by her brother-in-law Raymond Malon, her sister Karen Olendorff, her brother Michael Turner (married to Patricia Mueller), her sister-in-law Susan Hediger ((née Toczylowski) married to Mark), her brother-in-law William Toczylowski (with wife Diane Henderson), as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael, parents James Turner and Marilyn (nee Tonry), sister Patricia Malon, sister Marilyn Turner, and brother-in-law Wayne Olendorff. She married Mike in 1976, and they began a life filled with fun, adventure, and music. She once stated, "My memories are fondest canoeing hundreds of miles of Missouri's rivers." She and Mike boated and fished dozens of Missouri and Illinois lakes. They skied with family in Colorado and enjoyed visiting family in Florida.

Colleen was proud of her over 25 years at the Army Publication Center. That is where she met Mike and he called her Cat. Her final position before retirement was in procurement and supply. She honed her ability to really listen to what her co-workers wanted or needed to do their job better. She extended this ability in all the other aspects of her life. She had the knack of getting just the right gift for family and friends. Her love of music began at the age of 4 or 5 when her dad brought home a stereo. She once wrote, "I thank my father for sharing his love of music. His passion influenced me, and I am so grateful for the wonderful memories and pleasure music brings me every day of my life." Colleen enjoyed attending concerts in the local area, introducing her nieces and nephews to different artists. She especially loved listening to the Rockin' Chair band and different concerts presented at the Wildly Theatre venue in Edwardsville. Playing canasta each week with her entertaining group of friends at the Maryland Heights Community Center brought her happiness and a sense of belonging. The last couple of years she was proud to be a committee member on the Maryland Heights Disability Commission. She prided herself in introducing and supporting new methods to make life more comfortable and accommodating for other folks. She was an amazing wife, sister, aunt, and friend.

For friends and family wishing to donate in Collen's honor we are suggesting St. Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired, APA of MO, TREE House of Greater St. Louis.