In Memory of Sophie Steigerwald

Anna-Sophia Marie Steigerwald was a bright light to anyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Originally from Littleton, Colorado, she began her studies at MSU in 2023 and had an immediate impact on those around her. Though she left us on August 13, 2025, her kind heart and welcoming personality continue to touch the lives of those she loved.

A fun-loving and caring person who never let the seriousness of life dampen her spirit, Sophie had a positive attitude that reached many members of the MSU community. Her friends look back fondly on her good-natured pranks, balanced out by a radiant sense that Sophie cared about everyone — not just those she knew. Her willingness to try new things and meet new people made her a friend to many different groups on campus.

Between her love for skiing — her friends referred to her as a “park rat” — her vibrant, spontaneous personality and her adventurous spirit, Sophie embodied all the best aspects of being a Bobcat. When she wasn’t out exploring Montana or hitting the slopes, Sophie spent her time sewing clothes for her friends. She would make the classic four-corner fleece hats — part of the unofficial winter uniform for MSU students —  sometimes even decking them out in Bobcat blue and gold. She was also known for her love of volleyball and her knack for picking things up quickly.

While Sophie’s passing has deeply affected the community, nothing can overshadow the impact she had on all who knew her. “She was the glue to our whole college life.” 

Those who knew Sophie said that they could speak for hours about all of the awesome things that made her life so beautiful. Her encouraging and selfless nature inspired her friends to believe in themselves. “When she told you you could do something, you were like, damn straight I can.”

Sophie’s friends hope her memory inspires others to live as open and loving a life as she did. “All we can keep doing is reflecting on the positive things.”