After a courageous 3+ year battle with glioblastoma, Cheryl passed away peacefully at home on Dec 20 at the age of 70. Cherished wife and best friend of Al for 48 years. Daughter of Evelyn and the late William (Bud) Petzold, and daughter in law to the late Ben and late Marion Harvey. Loving mother of Erin (Eli) and Brett (Amanda). Devoted grandmother (Nana) to “the littles” Kiira & Gunnar, who were the lights of her life.
Cheryl was third of nine siblings in her “alphabet family”, cherished sister to Aubrey (Jackie), Brenda (late Lorne), Don (Lisa), late Erwin (Brenda), Foster (Kellie), Grace, Hope and Hayley (Steve). Sister-in-law to Jim (Cathie), Dale (Marja) and Faye (Len). Beloved aunt to 12 and great aunt of 15.
A dedicated working mom, Cheryl had a 35 year career in healthcare, beginning as the medical receptionist in a family practise and eventually retiring as Medical Affairs Coordinator at the hospital. Along the way she formed lasting friendships that she treasured long after leaving the workplace.
Known for her quick wit and brilliant smile, Cheryl’s sense of humour was unforgettable. Her cheeky comebacks kept everyone on their toes, especially her husband Al, who will dearly miss being her favourite sparring partner. Her smile could light up a room and always made her blue eyes sparkle, earning her the nickname “Smiling Eyes” from friends who adored her.
After family, which was without question her greatest joy, she was a voracious reader with a particular love for historical fiction. The stacks of books covering every spare nook and cranny of her room constantly threatened to overflow into the hallway. When the warm weather coaxed her away from her library, she got great enjoyment out of puttering in her flower gardens. In her signature denim overalls and sun hat, she spent hours tormenting every weed and blade of grass that dared break the surface of her precious dirt. She was also enamoured with dragonflies and her dragonfly-themed collection included everything from jewelry to the fabric on her favourite recliner.
Cheryl found beauty in the simplest things and her love for life will continue to inspire everyone who knew her. We will miss her terribly. She has left us all with a treasure trove full of great memories and it is those memories that will help us through the grief of losing her and stay with us for the rest of our lives.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr Tam and the Lakelands Family Health team and to the Southeast Regional Cancer Centre at Queens University's Kingston General Hospital for the tremendous level of care Cheryl received throughout her difficult journey.
In keeping with her wishes there will be no funeral service. Following cremation, the family will gather at a later date to celebrate her life and reminisce about the profound impact she had on all of us.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Ottawa Heart Institute or to a local food bank in your area. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.milestonefuneralcenter.com.