Terese Sackos Obituary (1954)

Terese Dawn Sackos (May 23, 1954 – December 20, 2024) Terese passed peacefully at home with her faithful dog, Moose, by her side as she had requested. Terese was born and raised in Baker, Oregon to parents Alex and Mary Lou Sackos. She graduated from Baker High School in 1972 and thereafter, left Baker to pursue various jobs, which eventually lead to her lifelong career of caring for others in the healthcare field. She traveled for several years opening healthcare facilities around the country, training personnel and staff. She eventually returned to the Boise area to own and operate her own facilities for Memory Care. Terese always had a huge heart for helping people of all ages, but particularly the elderly. She loved helping those that were disadvantaged, or in need of care. The dedication, devotion, and love she had for her residents and families over the years was profound. She was always helping someone! Terese sold her last Memory Care home in May of 2022 after over 30 years of professional caregiving. As much as Terese loved serving others, she also loved getting out and having fun. She was particularly happy at the mention of a road trip! Off she went in “the church van”, as she called it, Moose always by her side. She was also an avid reader and left an impressive library behind. When she wasn’t traveling, or helping someone else, she enjoyed just being by her pool, reading, playing cards with good friends, listening to great music, and enjoying the sunshine. She loved being outdoors whether gardening, kayaking, or hiking in the mountains. She had an unparalleled sense of humor, and one thing she always joked about was her lack of cooking skills (she said she never got that Sackos gene, and we didn’t argue with her about that)! She was always a good sport even (especially!) if it was about her. Terese lost her father, Alex, in 2021. She was always very close to him growing up and loved him dearly. They both shared a strange love for animals throughout their lives. She was there to help Alex through the years he was diagnosed with cancer. She cherished the time they had together. Her one and only sibling, Tony Sackos, preceded her in death in 2022. Tony’s passing was a terrible loss for her, as they were extremely close. She missed their daily conversation and his wonderful sense of humor. Through thick and thin, they always had each other’s back and never questioned the love and strong bond they shared. Terese was diagnosed with cancer in 2022 and fought the 2 ½-year battle. She was determined to beat the odds and never lost hope that she would have more quality years ahead. She was such a strong warrior, always had a positive outlook on everything, cared about others first, and didn’t complain when times were extremely tough. She had so many friends that loved her and supported her throughout her life, most importantly, her last several years. To say she will be missed is an understatement. She is survived by her mother, Mary Lou Sackos of Baker City, son Trinity and his wife, Rachel, Granddaughter Chloee, Grandson Aiden, and sister-in-law Margaret Sackos. She also leaves behind several cousins, nephews, and a niece. Also, surviving her are her Aunt Barbara and Uncle Larry Anderson, who were always there supporting, helping, and loving her and giving comfort. She loved and respected them so deeply. A very special “thank you” to those who helped her so much through her journey with cancer, Dr. Anthony Dinallo and Janni Perkins, Dr. James Olsen, Dr. Warren Gude, Dr. Leila Khaddour, Niki Larkin, and close personal friend and nurse, Chantel Torell. There were many other wonderful nurses and staff, and she was so grateful for the care, kindness, and professionalism they gave her throughout her most difficult times. Our hearts are so full of the love she gave to us and memories that we will cherish forever. Something she said often - “GO FLY, BE FREE” ... and she did just that, finally pain free, at peace and with those she truly loved. Miss you and love you so much TD. Terese requested to not have a formal service. There will be a Celebration of Life for her in the Spring. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vida Funeral Home in Boise. Friends and family can visit the funeral home’s website: www.bellavidafuneralhome.com, to express their thoughts and leave condolences.