Ann Camille Sternal
April 08, 1943 - January 29, 2026
Obituary
CAMBRIDGE - Ann Shinn Sternal, age 82, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026, after complications related to dementia.
Ann was born in Minneapolis, Minn., and lived a life marked by curiosity, service, and devotion to the people she loved. Over the years, her journey took her to many places she called home, including Minneapolis, Minn.; Missoula, Mont.; Jonesboro, Ark.; Allentown, Pa.; Winona, Minn.; Morehead, Ky.; Cincinnati, Ohio; Stockton, Calif.; Concord, N.C.; Ocala, Fla.; Mooresville, N.C.; Greenville, S.C.; and finally, Cambridge, Wis. In each community, she built friendships easily and left behind warmth, kindness, and a sense of quiet purpose.
A deeply religious woman, Ann’s faith was the steady center of her life. She was devoted to her family, loyal to her friends, and committed to work that strengthened communities and helped others thrive. Her professional life focused on local economic development, including working as leaders of chambers of commerce and tourism organizations. Ann proudly volunteered with Rotary International, often participating in local service projects as well as in trips abroad. A professionally trained pianist and organist, she worked for churches in numerous communities providing inspired and spiritual music. She also found great meaning in teaching English as a second language, patiently helping Spanish-speaking students gain confidence and fluency, and forming lasting connections in the process.
Ann was married first to Tom Sternal, an artist and educator, who passed away in 2015. She later married Robert Strait, a golf course superintendent, who passed away in 2020. She is survived by her children, Julie Sternal of Cambridge, Wis. (and her partner, Bruce Helmen), and Tom Sternal of Austerlitz, N.Y. (and his spouse, Becky Sternal). She was also a loving stepmother to Steve Strait (and his wife, Sue). Ann took great joy in her grandchildren, Christophe, Finn and Tessa, who were a constant source of pride and happiness.
Those who knew Ann will remember her gentle presence, her genuine kindness, and her unwavering faith. She had a quiet way of caring deeply for others, and she always believed in doing the right and ethical thing. She listened, helped, and loved without condition.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A memorial service will be held at OAKLAND-CAMBRIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 313 Main St., Cambridge, at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Stoughton
Funeral & Cremation Care
1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.
(608) 873-4590