Erica Lynn Toquam, 33, born December 13, 1992, passed peacefully surrounded by her closest family at Mayo Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota on August 25, 2026. She was welcomed into the arms of Jesus with a smile on her face (literally) after a valiant 6 month battle with metastatic melanoma.
Erica was born in Barron, Wisconsin to Randy and Laurie Manske and was the little sister to Kristin Bishop (Adam) and Amy Larson (Tony). She was the daughter-in-law to Roger and Rhonda Toquam and brothers Brennen (Stacie) and Isaiah (Brenna) Toquam and 10 very loved nieces and nephews. She was a beloved wife, daughter, aunt, sister, friend and most importantly mother to Levi James (3) and Wesley Hugh (5 months).
Erica was a woman true to her words. She stood her ground in her beliefs, even if it went against the grain. She was fiercely loyal to those closest to her, was determined, decisive and resilient through the trials she faced. Her grit and resilience shined through many different phases of her life.
Erica loved all things dogs, especially her German Shepherds and Frenchie. She loved coffee (especially her miel and banana bread lattes), long walks, hiking, being outside, and the feeling of fresh air and sunshine. She was an empowering leader through her years as a softball pitcher in both high school, travel softball and then at Luther College.
Erica’s faith bloomed immensely over the past five years and became one of the strongest, most beautiful parts of who she was. She faced unimaginable hardship and still believed that God was good. She held tightly to the belief that He had a purpose, and wanted her story to be a testament to His goodness and faithfulness.
Erica and her soulmate Josh’s love story was one of those rare, beautiful stories that seemed to be written long before either of them could’ve known what their future would hold. Erica was just 12 and Josh 14 when they started dating, and over the next 21 years, they grew up side by side and built a beautiful life and love together. They married on July 11th, 2015. Over the following years, she adapted to her role as a farm wife and supported Josh and his family in many ways. Their story is a testament to a love that withstood the ordinary life trials, but also the unimaginable—each time choosing one another. The love they shared will never be erased-it will live on through their families, their boys, and in every person that was fortunate to witness the extraordinary love they shared.
Of all the roles Erica played in her life, her most treasured role was being a mother to her boys. She loved them with a fierce, selfless, all-encompassing love. She was their protector and advocate. Being their mom was her greatest joy and her deepest purpose. She fought through every obstacle with them at the forefront of her heart, always wanting more time, memories and moments with the two boys she adored.
We would like to express sincere gratitude to Erica’s team of providers at Mayo Clinic, especially Dr. Matt Block and Dr. Summer Allen, as well as her integrative provider Dr. Jeff. The compassionate care they all provided truly made a difference.
She was preceded in death by grandparents Adolph and Lorraine Scheps, Conrad and Patricia Manske, cousin Katie Scheps, and her beloved dogs Casey, Kobe, Kane, Laika and Huey.
Erica’s wish was for a Celebration of Life and was adamant it would be a true celebration of a life well lived. Her request was to not wear black and to keep it casual and joyous. Her Celebration of Life will be on Sunday, September 6th with a ceremony promptly (Erica was always on time) from 2:30-3pm and visitation until 6pm at Josh and Erica’s home. Address is 10432 state Hwy 30, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota 55917.
If compelled, donations can be made out to Josh Toquam, with proceeds going directly towards Levi and Wesley per Erica’s request.
Memories and condolences of Erica may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
