Cheryl Louise Peterson, age 67, of Spokane Valley, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with MS on the morning of December 28, 2024.
Cherri was born on April 17th 1957 in Anchorage, Alaska to Kenneth and Bernadine Tschetter. One of seven girls, Cherri’s childhood was full of laughter and adventure. The family moved to Spokane in 1969 where she graduated from University High school in 1976. In 1984 she began her own family with the birth of her son, Mathew, and her daughter, Kimberley, in 1986. Cherri loved being a mom and was fulfilled by the many milestones she shared with her children.
Cherri’s career began in dentistry, where she worked as a dedicated dental assistant. However, her true passion for educating and nurturing children eventually led her to pursue a path as a teacher’s assistant for special needs students at Lake Spokane Elementary (Nine Mile Falls). Cherri had a profound impact on the lives of countless students, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion, kindness and patience. Teaching brought Cherri immense happiness, and she often spoke fondly of her memories and moments of joy that she experienced working with children.
Cherri was known for her strong will, unwavering positive attitude and love and support for her family and friends. Her radiant smile lit up any room she entered, and it was the small things in life that made her happy. She enjoyed eating red licorice on the dock at Spirit Lake, planting flowers and making her yard beautiful, a good cup of coffee and she never tasted a cookie she didn’t love.
Her heart was filled with love for her children, grandchildren, sisters, nieces and nephews and close friends, who brought her endless happiness and cherished memories. Cherri was deeply spiritual, and her faith brought her peace, comfort and strength during challenging times.
Cherri’s sweet presence was a gift, and those fortunate enough to know her were deeply touched by her love, compassion and infectious joy.
Cherri is survived by her children, Matthew Peterson of Spokane (Valerie) and Kimberley Johnson of York, Australia (Mick). Grandchildren, Joey and Jacob Peterson, Olivia, Angus and Charlotte Johnson. Sisters, Debbie Hagarty (Bob, and their children Nick, Laura and Andrea), Michele Ralston (Pete and their children Caitlin, Ken, Bridget and Peter), Tammy White (Bob and their children Lindsay, Ryan, Jonathan and David), Kimi Porter (Jon and their children Courtney and Cassadey), Terri Whaley (Mike and their children Sean, Austin and Julia), and Lori Tschetter (Lee Stoll).
Cherri was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth and her mother Bernadine.
Please join us for the celebration of Cherri’s incredible life at a memorial scheduled for Friday, January 24, 2025 at 11am at Thornhill Valley Chapel.
1400 S Pines Road, Spokane WA 99206
Keep smiling keep shining bright Cher
Chery was a light and a bundle of joy!!!! She was always smiling and laughing and a Real Sweetheart!!!!! We all loved her candy drawer and her love of PeanutM&M’S!!!!!! She will be Missed and always Loved by all who knew her!!!!!!🙏🙏❤️❤️😘😘
Thank you Cheri for all your love not only for the children but for the teachers and staff. I love you🙏🙏🙏🙏
Rest in peace to sweet Cherri. A person doesn't often meet someone who is so very kind and has such a big heart. I have many fond memories of hours spent with her at the kids' sporting events. Sending Matt and Kimmy and the entire family my deepest condolences. She is terribly missed but we are glad she is dancing with the angels.🙏 Debbie Novak and family.