The moment when Cheryl found her place
3
I have read so many beautiful messages about Cheryl, and the one thing that we all got to share was her love, her love of life, her love for her friends and her family, her grandchildren, her love for John, her love for her church.
Cheryl had the most beautiful smile we laughed together and cried together she was loving and caring and I was blessed to call her my friend
We will miss her but she will remain in our hearts and we will remeber and cherish the times we shared with both Cheryl and John with love.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Kevin , Beth and both families.
The Moore family xxx
4
I have spent this past week trying to think of what I could say to sum up my feelings towards Cheryl and what she meant to this world. It is nearly impossible. Cheryl was the wisest and most grounded friend I have ever had. She had really "done her work" and found peace and joy within herself and her life. (No, it wasn't perfect, but it was good and it was genuine.) I know *very* few people who can say the same. She didn't waste time resenting people or situations that disappointed her. She voiced how she felt, often with a laugh or an occasional grimace, and moved on. If she struggled, she sought help from the many unique and beautiful friends who were drawn to her same uniqueness. She was wonderfully loyal to her family and close friends. She was one of the most patient, compassionate listeners I have ever known. We had conversations that I will cherish and remember forever. She is the type of person I aspire to be, every day, but mostly fail to be. Yet she would say, "Oh Jane, you are working so hard! And I love your precious heart," and suddenly I wouldn't feel so disappointed in myself.
Cheryl, you are a guiding star, pointing me towards the light. Until we meet again, I will walk without you on this earth, but with you in my heart, forever in gratitude.
I love you.
Jane
5
We met John and Cheryl when John became the priest at our church in Hamburg, MI. John and Cheryl were truly a match made in heaven. You could feel the love and respect they had for each other. Their humor was delightful. When the church ladies guild had bake sales, Cheryl always made about 20 pies. One year she had to be away on business, so she made the pies, froze them, then told a perplexed John how to bake them, then "take them to the church". This last summer we met Cheryl in Brighton when she was visiting the area. We had a delightful lunch at Tomato Bros. The waitress was especially kind to us when Cheryl said we wanted to visit because we hadn't seen each other in years. We ate and talked for 3 hours. Cheryl will be missed by so many, but when we think of her she will put a smile on our face....she always has. Peace be with her family.
7
I loved to bake with Grammy, and I'm happy I could see her during Christmas and that she came to visit during October break.
7
Dear Cunningham Family,
I am so sorry and saddened to hear about the loss of Cheryl. It was so sudden and such a shock. I am sure you still cannot wrap your brain around it. You probably keep asking yourself…..why why why? I don’t understand why such good people go way before their time. However, I do know, God‘s timing is perfect, and we don’t see it now, but one day we will get it. Cheryl certainly didn’t deserve death but I do know she deserves Heaven. Heaven is for beautiful souls and as we all know, Cheryl was a beautiful soul.
I know there’s nothing that can make it any easier or take away that deep sharp pain. I hope the thought of Cheryl being with the love of her life John, her parents, Grandma Phalen, Uncle Gene(my dad), and all her love ones, will bring a little bit of comfort to your hearts. Also, knowing everything humanly possible was done and the scenario would not have played out any different. It was in God’s hands.
My deepest heartfelt sympathy for the entire family.
Sending love, strength, and prayers,
Gina Larson
3
I was fortunate to meet Cheryl through the Ann Arbor HR chapter. Over the next few years, I brought her in to provide coaching and training in several different workplaces. She became an amazing mentor for me and I'll always remember her great laugh, her kindness, and her words of wisdom. Peace.
3
Kevin, Beth and family-- I am so very sorry to hear about your mom. Your mom was one of the first 'parents' I met when we moved to Brighton. Her sense of humor and insight into various situations both made me laugh and kept me from losing my mind while working on various school projects. (Suellen might argue that point, but I will stand by it for now). I wish you memories that will bring quiet joy, laughter and continued love. Love, hugs and prayers.
1
I met Cheryl and John in YouFit Silver Sneakers class several years ago. They were so very special to my husband and me. So funny together. I missed John terribly when he passed away and now I will be missing them both. But knowing they are together again makes me smile for them. We are so sorry for your loss.
1
My cousin Cheryl was a gem and will be dearly missed. Sending you love and strength in this time of loss.
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