Tawatala Rebika Ross Sherwood

Tawatala Rebika Ross Sherwood went home to Heaven peacefully on September 5, 2026, at the age of 48. He will be remembered

as a loving father, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose warmth, humor, generosity, and kind personality touched so many lives.

A light seemed to enter the room whenever Wata walked in. With his bright smile, infectious laugh, and big heart, he had a natural way of bringing warmth and joy wherever he went. Genuinely friendly, Wata could connect with just about anyone.

His kindness was simply part of who he was, and he had a gift for making people feel welcome.

Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Wata grew up as one of seven children in a family that remained at the heart of his life. Outgoing and athletic from a young age, he attended Roosevelt High School, where he was crowned Homecoming King, played football and baseball, and served as captain of his football team. His love of sports continued throughout his life.

Wata was a proud Minnesota Vikings fan, and his love for the purple and gold was well known. He also enjoyed Timberwolves and Twins games, including the cherished tradition of attending the Twins' annual Prince Night with his siblings. For Wata, these outings were about more than sports - they were another opportunity to be together and make memories.

Family was at the center of Wata's life. He shared a special bond with his brothers and sisters, built on loyalty, laughter, and lifelong support. Some of their most meaningful times were also the simplest — grilling, watching sports, sharing meals, celebrating holidays, and enjoying one another's company.

Wata loved good food and the memories made around it. Whether grilling, enjoying his mother's home-cooked meals, trying a new Minneapolis restaurant, or sampling foods at the Minnesota State Fair, a good meal was always better when shared with family.

The holidays, especially Christmas, held a special place in Wata's heart. He loved the traditions, togetherness, and joy of the season and took pride in decorating his home.

Wata also took pride in his appearance and was known for being well dressed and always smelling good. He carried himself with a sense of style and confidence that was unmistakably Wata.

Above all, Wata's proudest accomplishment was being a father. His daughter, TaNia, held an irreplaceable place in his heart. He loved being a girl dad and was immensely proud of the young woman she became, including the joy of seeing her graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic Institute.

Wata also treasured being an uncle and shared special relationships with his nieces and nephews.

He brought his big smile, jokes, and warmth to family gatherings and everyday moments alike.

Wata carried that same warmth into his friendships and career. After working at a car dealership and later Mystic Lake Casino, he built a long career with Wells Fargo Business Payroll Services (BPS), where he worked for approximately 20 years. Along the way, coworkers became friends and friends became like family. Some friendships began in chiidhood and lasted for decades — a reflection of the loyalty he brought to those he cared about.

Wata is lovingly remembered by his mother, Eleanor; his beloved daughter, TaNia; his siblings, Tana, Deon, Jesse, Mandy, and Austin; his cherished nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were brighter because of him.

He is reunited in Heaven with his father, Mwata, his brother, Ricky, and nephew Scotty.

Though Wata's presence will be deeply missed, the love and joy he brought into the lives of others will continue to live on in the stories, traditions, and memories that his family carries forward.

Services will be held at Bradshaw - Minnehaha, 3131 Minnehaha Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406, on Thursday October 1, 2026 at 1pm with a visitation 1 hour prior. Repass will be at the Sabathani Community Center, 310 E 38th St., Minneapolis, MN 55409 Following the service from 2:30pm-4:30pm.