My name is Debbie. I am Cheryl’s first degree cousin from her Mother’s side. The night before Cheryl’s funeral service, I was contemplating of what to write. There are a lot of memories we shared together and it was difficult choosing which memories to share. I wanted to make sure my speech captured the essence of Cheryl. I wrote this speech the morning of Cheryl’s funeral service, just half an hour before it started. As I sat next to Cheryl, it was like she was sitting next to me, helping me write. I could feel her talking to me, letting me know her favorite moments we shared together.
First of all, I want to share that Cheryl was a woman with much integrity and her heart was full of compassion. She couldn’t hurt a soul, not even an animal. She loved her dogs Maka & Mana very much! She always saw the good in others and gave people the benefit of a doubt. What I admired most about Cheryl was that she was very independent, an over-achiever, and very critical about herself. That’s only because she put her whole-heart into everything she did. I was so proud of her when she bought her home in Hemet! Also, she was very passionate about life. She never took things for granted, she loved to travel, and enjoyed eating at fine restaurants. One example of how passionate she was of life was on her 21st birthday. Cheryl didn’t care about hitting the clubs, neither taking advantage of being 21. So, I surprised her by flying her out to Maui. We started our trip by visiting her Grandma Fernandez in up-country. Then, we drove to Kapalua to sit by the beach, sipped on virgin Pina Colada, and enjoyed each others company. Then, we drove to Iao needle and had a crazy idea to take the risk of jumping off a cliff and into the river. This is one of my many fondest memories that I had with Cheryl. What I will truly miss the most of Cheryl was our daily phone calls to each other and many long hours of conversations! Most times, we spoke of nonsense, but it was so meaningful that when Cheryl didn’t call, I longed to hear her voice. When we spoke, we could talk about everything and anything. She was such a good listener and saw things in a different perspective. Cheryl, was not only my cousin, but my best friend, and sister.
Cheryl, I thank you for being there for me and for putting up with my crap. I know at times, I could be difficult, but it was only because I was being over-protective of you. I love you very much and will always hold you close to my heart! I have come to accept, that God put you in my life to understand that life is too precious! Through you, I have come to appreciate life like you did. To Evan, Cheryl has expressed to me many times that she finally found her true love. I want to thank you very much for making Cheryl very happy and for allowing her to experience being a Mommy. That was her main goal in life… to love and you have given that to her. Cheryl, I love you and I will never forget the times we shared together, and most importantly, all the meaningful lessons you have taught me in your life. Although you are not here with us physically, you will always remain in our hearts and souls. We love you Cheryl and miss you dearly.
Forever your cousin,
Debbie
Monday, February 16, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Rest in Peace Cheryl We Love You
An email written by Hugo Stanley the day after Cheryl passed...
Ev, please post this piece I had written the day that Cheryl passed
and shared with friends that we both had in common and others I'm
close to.
I wrote this on my personal website today, and I wanted to share it
with you all.
Today my beloved friend and sister Cheryl Fernandez Louie lost a year
and half long battle with brain cancer. She was the loving wife of
one of my best friends Evan, and mother to my goddaughter Cevan Aisla.
Cheryl was in her early Thirties, newly married, and a first time
mother just over a year ago.
Cheryl was a typical island girl whose whole life was like a hula.
Her demeanor, attitude, personality, wit and even the way she walked
was flowing and effortless. Cheryl worked for the state of Hawaii as
a Sales Director and was admired by all who knew her professionally
for her ethic and professionalism. She was also a former beauty queen
for the state of Hawaii.
She loved wine, good food, her pets, reading, her home and was never
someone I'd ever known to complain about any facet of her life. Her
two greatest loves were her Ohana and her heart, Evan & Cevan.
The last time I saw her was at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Even then, as she lay there fighting but visibly weak, I marveled at
how beautiful and graceful she was.
Please say a prayer for my brother and his family in their time of
need. Hug your loved ones, and let them know you love them. If they
ask, tell them I told you to do it.
Cheryl may have lost the battle with cancer, but she has won her wings
in Heaven, and those who knew her have memories more precious than any
prize.
Go in peace sister, we love you. We'll meet again.
"Beyond the door
There's peace I'm sure.
And I know there'll be no more...
Tears in heaven..."
Tears in Heaven
Eric Clapton
Ev, please post this piece I had written the day that Cheryl passed
and shared with friends that we both had in common and others I'm
close to.
I wrote this on my personal website today, and I wanted to share it
with you all.
Today my beloved friend and sister Cheryl Fernandez Louie lost a year
and half long battle with brain cancer. She was the loving wife of
one of my best friends Evan, and mother to my goddaughter Cevan Aisla.
Cheryl was in her early Thirties, newly married, and a first time
mother just over a year ago.
Cheryl was a typical island girl whose whole life was like a hula.
Her demeanor, attitude, personality, wit and even the way she walked
was flowing and effortless. Cheryl worked for the state of Hawaii as
a Sales Director and was admired by all who knew her professionally
for her ethic and professionalism. She was also a former beauty queen
for the state of Hawaii.
She loved wine, good food, her pets, reading, her home and was never
someone I'd ever known to complain about any facet of her life. Her
two greatest loves were her Ohana and her heart, Evan & Cevan.
The last time I saw her was at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Even then, as she lay there fighting but visibly weak, I marveled at
how beautiful and graceful she was.
Please say a prayer for my brother and his family in their time of
need. Hug your loved ones, and let them know you love them. If they
ask, tell them I told you to do it.
Cheryl may have lost the battle with cancer, but she has won her wings
in Heaven, and those who knew her have memories more precious than any
prize.
Go in peace sister, we love you. We'll meet again.
"Beyond the door
There's peace I'm sure.
And I know there'll be no more...
Tears in heaven..."
Tears in Heaven
Eric Clapton
Friday, January 23, 2009
Letter to Cevan from Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
Cevan,
I remember when your dad told me that he met your mom…his voice was full of excitement and bursting with joy and happiness. Now at the time, I didn’t think much of it because your dad is always so optimistic about everyone and everything that he puts his heart in, however, your mom had a different effect on your dad. Your dad was glowing with radiance because he met his soul mate and never had any cares in the world! So being the skeptical Nino that I am, I was like,” Okay Tama, I want to meet this woman and see what was making you all gushy inside.”
When your Nina Heitiare and I met your mom, my skepticism changed to enthusiasm as I felt that I knew your mother for years after just one day. Your mother, Cheryl, showed me in one day that she is a very kind hearted soul that genially welcomes everyone in without any prejudice or judgment. She is very respectful of people and always wanted them to feel comfortable, regardless of what was going on. She is a great listener and was involved in the entire conversations providing great perspectives on various topics that we talked about. She is funny and had humility at the same time cracking jokes about herself. Your Nina and I were instantly in awww with your mom as she lit up the room with her aura! We are so happy that your dad found your mom.
Here is a poem that that would give you a sense of who your mom is to us:
Two Types of Friends -- Real & Simple
A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears.
A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.
A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and clean.
A simple friend hates it when you call after he has gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.
A simple friend seeks to talk with you about their problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.
A simple friend wonders about your romantic history.
A real friend could blackmail you with it.
A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself.
A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight.
A simple friend expects you to always be there for them.
A real friend expects to always be there for you!
Your mom is a real friend of ours and we will hold and cherish everything that we shared with her including you. Nene, we will keep your mom’s legacy alive through teaching you about your mom Cheryl and how she changed our lives.
Love you,
Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
I remember when your dad told me that he met your mom…his voice was full of excitement and bursting with joy and happiness. Now at the time, I didn’t think much of it because your dad is always so optimistic about everyone and everything that he puts his heart in, however, your mom had a different effect on your dad. Your dad was glowing with radiance because he met his soul mate and never had any cares in the world! So being the skeptical Nino that I am, I was like,” Okay Tama, I want to meet this woman and see what was making you all gushy inside.”
When your Nina Heitiare and I met your mom, my skepticism changed to enthusiasm as I felt that I knew your mother for years after just one day. Your mother, Cheryl, showed me in one day that she is a very kind hearted soul that genially welcomes everyone in without any prejudice or judgment. She is very respectful of people and always wanted them to feel comfortable, regardless of what was going on. She is a great listener and was involved in the entire conversations providing great perspectives on various topics that we talked about. She is funny and had humility at the same time cracking jokes about herself. Your Nina and I were instantly in awww with your mom as she lit up the room with her aura! We are so happy that your dad found your mom.
Here is a poem that that would give you a sense of who your mom is to us:
Two Types of Friends -- Real & Simple
A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears.
A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.
A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and clean.
A simple friend hates it when you call after he has gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.
A simple friend seeks to talk with you about their problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.
A simple friend wonders about your romantic history.
A real friend could blackmail you with it.
A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself.
A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight.
A simple friend expects you to always be there for them.
A real friend expects to always be there for you!
Your mom is a real friend of ours and we will hold and cherish everything that we shared with her including you. Nene, we will keep your mom’s legacy alive through teaching you about your mom Cheryl and how she changed our lives.
Love you,
Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays Cheryl my love…..
It is hard to believe it was only last year that we were spending time with the family here in Las Vegas and your condition was stable. You were hanging out with the cousins and joking around, playing with our daughter Cevan, . To me, it seems like 16 months has been 16 years and I can’t imagine any period of my life’s existence seem that long of a span in such a short interval (I am not sure if that makes sense). I guess its analogous to the months have seemed like years.
We spent Thanksgiving with my sister Gina & Davis, Cevan, Tatai, Al & my mom, and your father and step mom in Vegas. We also went to cousin Debbie & Bong’s house with many of the other cousin’s there and Cevan played with the other kids. We were joking about that close cousin of yours (you know who you are) who was already married and didn’t tell any of us.. How we were all pressuring them to get engaged when they eloped far before that…. Such a good actor and actress.. they should get an Oscar for that performance ;) We also went to Bong & Debbie’s again for the Manny Pacquiao fight and spent time with all the Vegas side of the family. Our daughter is growing up so fast but she is definitely a tough little girl. She has a new nickname “baby Pacquiao or baby Pac” since she likes to beat up everyone (slap, scratch, and pinch). The Guamanians / Chamorros call it magodie ( I don’t know the right spelling but something pronounced like that). Its how she shows her affection…. We took her to Opportunity Village which is this spectacular setup that looks like the North Pole came to Vegas. Cevan was so enamored with all the ostentatious displays, toys, santa, lights, etc.. We couldn’t even get a picture of her looking straight at the camera and she was saying “oh wow” the whole time. I watched all the young parents with their babies and children… I have never been a jealous person but for once in my life I was. The thoughts started coming across my mind that they got to share the joys together and captivate that experience… side by side… but I know deep down that you were watching us from heaven Cheryl.
I know it’s always the holidays that are always the most difficult.. Especially when its so close to the loss of a loved one. It seems like every song on the radio reminds me of you and even Christmas songs. I receive a lot of praise from your family for all the devotion to you and they know that I did it all for you and our daughter. I just wish you had more time in this world to see her grow up. You know that I am working so hard doing so many things to make you proud.
I guess I have to share so more stories so I will. I remember the time when we took your nephew Darius (Juniors son) with your father and step mother to the Boomers miniature golf place in San Diego. You were so embarrassed because it was one of the first impressions on your father and I was like a big kid racing Darius, rock climbing, playing video games, etc.. with him. I remember you telling your father that your man is a kid at heart. I remember the times we played drinking scrabble and you would get so intoxicated that it became blatantly obvious when you were making up words. I challenged you ever chance I got to and we would bust up laughing because you were such a bad liar!!! I remember when we used to argue about things and than you would sit on the bed and rub the spot next to you like you were “warming it up for me to lay next to you”. We would start laughing because we didn’t even know what we were arguing about. I remember the day of our first date vividly. I opened the door when you arrived and my heart sunk.. I was so stunned and awestricken.. you had this effervescent glow that there are no words to describe. I have met thousands of people in my life but never felt so nervous to make the right impression. You were the most beautiful person I have ever met in my life. I tried to play it off all casual but my heart was racing. There are so many more stories to share but wanted to say Happy Holidays from your husband and daughter!!
It is hard to believe it was only last year that we were spending time with the family here in Las Vegas and your condition was stable. You were hanging out with the cousins and joking around, playing with our daughter Cevan, . To me, it seems like 16 months has been 16 years and I can’t imagine any period of my life’s existence seem that long of a span in such a short interval (I am not sure if that makes sense). I guess its analogous to the months have seemed like years.
We spent Thanksgiving with my sister Gina & Davis, Cevan, Tatai, Al & my mom, and your father and step mom in Vegas. We also went to cousin Debbie & Bong’s house with many of the other cousin’s there and Cevan played with the other kids. We were joking about that close cousin of yours (you know who you are) who was already married and didn’t tell any of us.. How we were all pressuring them to get engaged when they eloped far before that…. Such a good actor and actress.. they should get an Oscar for that performance ;) We also went to Bong & Debbie’s again for the Manny Pacquiao fight and spent time with all the Vegas side of the family. Our daughter is growing up so fast but she is definitely a tough little girl. She has a new nickname “baby Pacquiao or baby Pac” since she likes to beat up everyone (slap, scratch, and pinch). The Guamanians / Chamorros call it magodie ( I don’t know the right spelling but something pronounced like that). Its how she shows her affection…. We took her to Opportunity Village which is this spectacular setup that looks like the North Pole came to Vegas. Cevan was so enamored with all the ostentatious displays, toys, santa, lights, etc.. We couldn’t even get a picture of her looking straight at the camera and she was saying “oh wow” the whole time. I watched all the young parents with their babies and children… I have never been a jealous person but for once in my life I was. The thoughts started coming across my mind that they got to share the joys together and captivate that experience… side by side… but I know deep down that you were watching us from heaven Cheryl.
I know it’s always the holidays that are always the most difficult.. Especially when its so close to the loss of a loved one. It seems like every song on the radio reminds me of you and even Christmas songs. I receive a lot of praise from your family for all the devotion to you and they know that I did it all for you and our daughter. I just wish you had more time in this world to see her grow up. You know that I am working so hard doing so many things to make you proud.
I guess I have to share so more stories so I will. I remember the time when we took your nephew Darius (Juniors son) with your father and step mother to the Boomers miniature golf place in San Diego. You were so embarrassed because it was one of the first impressions on your father and I was like a big kid racing Darius, rock climbing, playing video games, etc.. with him. I remember you telling your father that your man is a kid at heart. I remember the times we played drinking scrabble and you would get so intoxicated that it became blatantly obvious when you were making up words. I challenged you ever chance I got to and we would bust up laughing because you were such a bad liar!!! I remember when we used to argue about things and than you would sit on the bed and rub the spot next to you like you were “warming it up for me to lay next to you”. We would start laughing because we didn’t even know what we were arguing about. I remember the day of our first date vividly. I opened the door when you arrived and my heart sunk.. I was so stunned and awestricken.. you had this effervescent glow that there are no words to describe. I have met thousands of people in my life but never felt so nervous to make the right impression. You were the most beautiful person I have ever met in my life. I tried to play it off all casual but my heart was racing. There are so many more stories to share but wanted to say Happy Holidays from your husband and daughter!!
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Speech From the Funeral Service in San Diego
There was a few requests to post the speech from the funeral service on Saturday in San Diego. I think it has been iterated in different parts of this blog but here it goes:
On behalf of my wife and our family we would like to thank all of you for coming to celebrate the life of Cheryl. I had the opportunity to talk to many of you who may have felt their faith challenged to see such a young, beautiful, intelligent, and spiritual 35 year old woman pass away right at the beginning of her life in a marriage and motherhood. I struggled with that for some time but realized that God has a purpose in life for everyone. I believe my purpose was to be next to her side thru not just the hardships and sorrows but the happiness and joy as well..I believe that she was given the ability to experience so many things with her limited time in this world. Cheryl once told me that she had accomplished so much and felt like she lived a very full life She told me that she had the chance to experience meeting her love of her life and getting married, giving birth to a child, and most importantly touching every single one of your lives and sharing so many memories.. She often told me and her family and friends not to worry. She will be OK. I took Cheryl to the best doctors and hospitals and the best treatments with modern medicine. One of the hardest things for me to deal with is the time she told the doctors in the hospital not to worry her husband will make her better. She wanted me to promise to her that I will do everything I can to give more days to be with us. But when the time came for her to understand it will be “her time” and accept that she will be in a better place.. Her gift to me is not only all the fond memories, our daughter and a new family, but the strength to endure such a difficult time. There were times when I was holding on by the very strings of that strength but was restored by faith and her influence on me. She made me a better man.
A very close and wise friend once told me when Cheryl was hospitalized in her late stages that you will always be fighting a battle. It may be hospitals, medical insurance company, fear of the future, and brain cancer now. But if she makes that transition to heaven you will be fighting to preserve her memory because she will always live on through you, your daughter, and everyone who has ever known her. Cheryl was always more worried about others and did want them to worry about her because she didn’t want them to feel pain and sadness The final gift that she wanted to bestow to every one of you is not to worry, don’t feel that pain for her loss or regrets because she will eternally live with you in spirit and her love will be carried in her hearts. Thank you for sharing the celebration of life of my dear wife Cheryl.
On behalf of my wife and our family we would like to thank all of you for coming to celebrate the life of Cheryl. I had the opportunity to talk to many of you who may have felt their faith challenged to see such a young, beautiful, intelligent, and spiritual 35 year old woman pass away right at the beginning of her life in a marriage and motherhood. I struggled with that for some time but realized that God has a purpose in life for everyone. I believe my purpose was to be next to her side thru not just the hardships and sorrows but the happiness and joy as well..I believe that she was given the ability to experience so many things with her limited time in this world. Cheryl once told me that she had accomplished so much and felt like she lived a very full life She told me that she had the chance to experience meeting her love of her life and getting married, giving birth to a child, and most importantly touching every single one of your lives and sharing so many memories.. She often told me and her family and friends not to worry. She will be OK. I took Cheryl to the best doctors and hospitals and the best treatments with modern medicine. One of the hardest things for me to deal with is the time she told the doctors in the hospital not to worry her husband will make her better. She wanted me to promise to her that I will do everything I can to give more days to be with us. But when the time came for her to understand it will be “her time” and accept that she will be in a better place.. Her gift to me is not only all the fond memories, our daughter and a new family, but the strength to endure such a difficult time. There were times when I was holding on by the very strings of that strength but was restored by faith and her influence on me. She made me a better man.
A very close and wise friend once told me when Cheryl was hospitalized in her late stages that you will always be fighting a battle. It may be hospitals, medical insurance company, fear of the future, and brain cancer now. But if she makes that transition to heaven you will be fighting to preserve her memory because she will always live on through you, your daughter, and everyone who has ever known her. Cheryl was always more worried about others and did want them to worry about her because she didn’t want them to feel pain and sadness The final gift that she wanted to bestow to every one of you is not to worry, don’t feel that pain for her loss or regrets because she will eternally live with you in spirit and her love will be carried in her hearts. Thank you for sharing the celebration of life of my dear wife Cheryl.
Some Stories Shared by Family and Friends
Dear all who read this,
Please feel free to write any story you would to share about Cheryl by posting a comment. It can be even a short story so please don't be shy. Also, there is a feature to follow these postings and be updated whenever people put messages here. I have attached a few stories sent via email to me after she passed.
MY NAME IS DIONE HAGEMANN AND I KNEW CHERYL BACK WHEN SHE WAS A FLIGHT ATTENDANT WITH ME AT HAWAIIAN AIRLINES. WE BOTH WERE ROOMMATES IN LOS ANGELES. WE SHARED A ROOM TOGETHER AND WE WOULD ALWLAYS BE LAUGHING UNTIL 12 AM IN THE MORNING. I REALLY LOOKED UP TO HER BECAUSE SHE WAS SUCH A POSITIVE PERSON!!! SHE WOULD TAKE ME AROUND L.A. WITH HER AND WE WOULD HAVE A BLAST!! AND OF COURSE SHE LOVED TO DRINK HER WINE..AND I WOULD JOIN HER TOO!!
THE FUNNIEST MEMORY OF HER WAS WHEN SHE WAS TEACHING ME HOW TO DRIVE HER TRUCK. I DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO DRIVE STANDARD. I JUMPED INTO THE DRIVER SEAT AND TRIED IT. SHE KEPT TELLING ME "THIS IS 1ST GEAR AND THEN 2ND GEAR." I SHIFTED... THEN WE STALLED.. OF COURSE WE WERE LAUGHING!!! I TRIED IT AGAIN AND WE STARTED TO MOVE BUT THE TRUCK STARTED TO JERK TREMENDOUSLY THEN IT STALLED AGAIN. WE LOOKED TO OUR LEFT AND THERE WERE THESE GOOD LOOKING FIREMEN THAT WERE STARING AT US AND WE WERE SOOOO EMBARRASED.. WE LITERALLY PEED OUR PANTS BECAUSE WE WERE LAUGHING SOO HARD!! I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT!!
CHERYL FOUND ME ON MYSPACE AND I WROTE TO HER A FEW TIMES AND SHE TOLD ME THAT SHE HAD A BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL. I WAS SOOO HAPPY FOR YOU GUYS. I AM REALLY GOING TO MISS HER..... I KNOW THAT SHE IS IN PEACE. PLEASE TAKE CARE AND KISS CEVAN FOR ME!!!
Posted by Dione Hagemann
I first met Cheryl when I was accepting applications for a cocktail server. She came in just to fill out an application. I remember interviewing her and was very impressed with her attitude, not to mention her being attractive but also having a bubbly personality. Needless to say I hired her and my only regret is that she didn’t work with us longer. But someone with the looks, personality and intelligence that Cheryl had is not going to be a waitress for long. I knew she was destined for bigger and better things. It isn’t often you find someone with the whole package. She was not conceited about herself at all. She had so much going for her. I just wanted to let you know that she touched a lot of hearts here. I feel fortunate to have met someone like Cheryl in my lifetime. She wasn’t just another employee but we became friends also. I would always try to give her advice because I knew she was someone that had a lot going for her. She worked at John Dominis at a time when everyone had fun together. I hope you and your daughter find the strength to carry on. It is tragic that your daughter will not grow up with her mother. But I know you will make sure Cheryl’s spirit lives on.
Sincerely yours,
Randy Kong
She worked with me at John Dominis. I remember when she started, she was still in school a driving her Miss Hawaii car. She was somewhat embarrassed by that and didn't want to make a big deal about it. She was practical, smart and funny, we shared many laughs together. Even after she left JD's she kept in touch. She will be greatly missed. She may be gone but she'll never be forgotten. Please take care.
Aloha, Bobbie Maurer
John Dominis
Im a friend of Cheryls from Hawaiian Airlines. (Im Plain Jane on her Myspace) We haven't been in touch in a while and I have so many people on the Myspace page I dont check it anymore...Her old roommate (from flying in LA a while back) just told me the sad news. Im so sorry. I hope you are hanging in there. I wish I had something I could say or do for you all.
Cheryl was so kind to me- I had no car in LA and she always let me use her little truck when she left town. I used to stay over with the girls (in Redondo) a lot too. We had some great times walking together on the Boardwalk as well. Some great talks then too! She was so lovely in every way- caring, thoughtful, fun and took great care of me in LA. So I just wanted to share that with you.
If you are planning anything here, please let me know- and/or please keep in touch. Thanks.
Sending you all my Love and Aloha...
---Crystal
I have known Cheryl since kindergarten and she was sweet as ever. We remained friends in grade school at August Ahrens Elementary and hung out after school. We were practically neighbors as she lived down the street back then and I would let her ride my bike. Of course, she would ding my bike terribly, but we were friends true and true. I am going to miss her. I remember her smile, incessant talking and laughter! She loved her brother very much as she would talk about "Junior." I remember him too. I used to call her mom "Auntie" as she was friends with my mother.
Shirley Salcedo
Childhood friend of Cheryl's
Please feel free to write any story you would to share about Cheryl by posting a comment. It can be even a short story so please don't be shy. Also, there is a feature to follow these postings and be updated whenever people put messages here. I have attached a few stories sent via email to me after she passed.
MY NAME IS DIONE HAGEMANN AND I KNEW CHERYL BACK WHEN SHE WAS A FLIGHT ATTENDANT WITH ME AT HAWAIIAN AIRLINES. WE BOTH WERE ROOMMATES IN LOS ANGELES. WE SHARED A ROOM TOGETHER AND WE WOULD ALWLAYS BE LAUGHING UNTIL 12 AM IN THE MORNING. I REALLY LOOKED UP TO HER BECAUSE SHE WAS SUCH A POSITIVE PERSON!!! SHE WOULD TAKE ME AROUND L.A. WITH HER AND WE WOULD HAVE A BLAST!! AND OF COURSE SHE LOVED TO DRINK HER WINE..AND I WOULD JOIN HER TOO!!
THE FUNNIEST MEMORY OF HER WAS WHEN SHE WAS TEACHING ME HOW TO DRIVE HER TRUCK. I DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO DRIVE STANDARD. I JUMPED INTO THE DRIVER SEAT AND TRIED IT. SHE KEPT TELLING ME "THIS IS 1ST GEAR AND THEN 2ND GEAR." I SHIFTED... THEN WE STALLED.. OF COURSE WE WERE LAUGHING!!! I TRIED IT AGAIN AND WE STARTED TO MOVE BUT THE TRUCK STARTED TO JERK TREMENDOUSLY THEN IT STALLED AGAIN. WE LOOKED TO OUR LEFT AND THERE WERE THESE GOOD LOOKING FIREMEN THAT WERE STARING AT US AND WE WERE SOOOO EMBARRASED.. WE LITERALLY PEED OUR PANTS BECAUSE WE WERE LAUGHING SOO HARD!! I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT!!
CHERYL FOUND ME ON MYSPACE AND I WROTE TO HER A FEW TIMES AND SHE TOLD ME THAT SHE HAD A BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL. I WAS SOOO HAPPY FOR YOU GUYS. I AM REALLY GOING TO MISS HER..... I KNOW THAT SHE IS IN PEACE. PLEASE TAKE CARE AND KISS CEVAN FOR ME!!!
Posted by Dione Hagemann
I first met Cheryl when I was accepting applications for a cocktail server. She came in just to fill out an application. I remember interviewing her and was very impressed with her attitude, not to mention her being attractive but also having a bubbly personality. Needless to say I hired her and my only regret is that she didn’t work with us longer. But someone with the looks, personality and intelligence that Cheryl had is not going to be a waitress for long. I knew she was destined for bigger and better things. It isn’t often you find someone with the whole package. She was not conceited about herself at all. She had so much going for her. I just wanted to let you know that she touched a lot of hearts here. I feel fortunate to have met someone like Cheryl in my lifetime. She wasn’t just another employee but we became friends also. I would always try to give her advice because I knew she was someone that had a lot going for her. She worked at John Dominis at a time when everyone had fun together. I hope you and your daughter find the strength to carry on. It is tragic that your daughter will not grow up with her mother. But I know you will make sure Cheryl’s spirit lives on.
Sincerely yours,
Randy Kong
She worked with me at John Dominis. I remember when she started, she was still in school a driving her Miss Hawaii car. She was somewhat embarrassed by that and didn't want to make a big deal about it. She was practical, smart and funny, we shared many laughs together. Even after she left JD's she kept in touch. She will be greatly missed. She may be gone but she'll never be forgotten. Please take care.
Aloha, Bobbie Maurer
John Dominis
Im a friend of Cheryls from Hawaiian Airlines. (Im Plain Jane on her Myspace) We haven't been in touch in a while and I have so many people on the Myspace page I dont check it anymore...Her old roommate (from flying in LA a while back) just told me the sad news. Im so sorry. I hope you are hanging in there. I wish I had something I could say or do for you all.
Cheryl was so kind to me- I had no car in LA and she always let me use her little truck when she left town. I used to stay over with the girls (in Redondo) a lot too. We had some great times walking together on the Boardwalk as well. Some great talks then too! She was so lovely in every way- caring, thoughtful, fun and took great care of me in LA. So I just wanted to share that with you.
If you are planning anything here, please let me know- and/or please keep in touch. Thanks.
Sending you all my Love and Aloha...
---Crystal
I have known Cheryl since kindergarten and she was sweet as ever. We remained friends in grade school at August Ahrens Elementary and hung out after school. We were practically neighbors as she lived down the street back then and I would let her ride my bike. Of course, she would ding my bike terribly, but we were friends true and true. I am going to miss her. I remember her smile, incessant talking and laughter! She loved her brother very much as she would talk about "Junior." I remember him too. I used to call her mom "Auntie" as she was friends with my mother.
Shirley Salcedo
Childhood friend of Cheryl's
Monday, November 17, 2008
How Cheryl and I met...
We were introduced by a mutual friend Tammy after Cheryl moved from Hawaii to Southern California. Tammy would suggest that I get in contact with Cheryl and eventually I asked for her email address to see how things develop. We started off with lengthy emails learning all about each other and it progressed to telephone conversations. I remember spending up to 8-10 hours on the phone with her daily and keep her up till the late hours of the night. We both held different work schedules since I worked until later at night and she started early in the morning but we managed. We eventually got to the first date part “with no expectations”. She flew up to my house in Northern California and we both immediately felt the attraction towards each other. It was hard to avoid the fact that I already sensed that I met the one to have a future with.
Cheryl had everything you can want in a woman… Intelligence, Beauty (inside and out), Family Oriented, Caring, Honest, Dedicated, Spiritual, Modesty, and I can go on and on. I had no doubts about her in my life and my intuition told me that our relationship will evolve. Eventually, her trips to visit went from day trips to week trips to several weeks.. I would visit her down south and met her brother and friends. A joke that her brother and I share is that the first time we met we went deep sea fishing at 5 am. We both said what happens if we don’t like each other we are going to be stuck on a boat together all day!! But things worked out. It became to the point that she would make excuses to be with me and rationalize in her own way against the advice of her close friends (saying we were spending too much time together). For those of you cousins / friends reading this, don’t forget I have her love journal written in her own handwriting ;) Eventually we made the decision to live together and she moved up to live with me in Northern California.
Some of her most valued things I did for her in our relationship is one time I gave her series of small gifts consisting of everything she liked. To her, it showed that I payed attention to the details. I also wrote her the first poem she ever received. She loved the creative things that I would do like make her cards, create a treasure hunt for her birthday, and some spontaneous surprises we shared… Eventually, I proposed to her and we were engaged. We decided to get a brand new home together and moved near the central valley. We planned our weddings in San Diego and Las Vegas (long story) and planned for starting our family immediately to follow the wedding. We were married on February 18th, 2007 (four months before Cheryl was diagnosed with brain cancer) and again a few days later in Las Vegas. Cheryl and I had our many differences, heated arguments, etc.. that made us so passionate in our relationship. It drove us crazy in love and unconditionally in love… We both knew that no matter what we were devoted to each other and will never leave each other’s side through all the most difficult times.
There are many gifts that Cheryl has bestowed on me. One of the most influential is the strength and courage to endure the most difficult times. I have changed as a person and even my family notices that I have changed. I fought so many battles to keep the disease at bay and pushed the ultimate thresholds of tolerance, patience, etc.. It also gave me a sense of vitality and to always treasure every moment in your life because you never know what will happen next. Those snapshots and glimpses of cherished memories will always be treasured and never taken for granted … One of my parting gifts that I want to give back to Cheryl is immortality.. because her memories will forever be instilled within us and perpetuated through the stories we share. Now, hopefully we can share those stories with all the lives she has touched.
Cheryl had everything you can want in a woman… Intelligence, Beauty (inside and out), Family Oriented, Caring, Honest, Dedicated, Spiritual, Modesty, and I can go on and on. I had no doubts about her in my life and my intuition told me that our relationship will evolve. Eventually, her trips to visit went from day trips to week trips to several weeks.. I would visit her down south and met her brother and friends. A joke that her brother and I share is that the first time we met we went deep sea fishing at 5 am. We both said what happens if we don’t like each other we are going to be stuck on a boat together all day!! But things worked out. It became to the point that she would make excuses to be with me and rationalize in her own way against the advice of her close friends (saying we were spending too much time together). For those of you cousins / friends reading this, don’t forget I have her love journal written in her own handwriting ;) Eventually we made the decision to live together and she moved up to live with me in Northern California.
Some of her most valued things I did for her in our relationship is one time I gave her series of small gifts consisting of everything she liked. To her, it showed that I payed attention to the details. I also wrote her the first poem she ever received. She loved the creative things that I would do like make her cards, create a treasure hunt for her birthday, and some spontaneous surprises we shared… Eventually, I proposed to her and we were engaged. We decided to get a brand new home together and moved near the central valley. We planned our weddings in San Diego and Las Vegas (long story) and planned for starting our family immediately to follow the wedding. We were married on February 18th, 2007 (four months before Cheryl was diagnosed with brain cancer) and again a few days later in Las Vegas. Cheryl and I had our many differences, heated arguments, etc.. that made us so passionate in our relationship. It drove us crazy in love and unconditionally in love… We both knew that no matter what we were devoted to each other and will never leave each other’s side through all the most difficult times.
There are many gifts that Cheryl has bestowed on me. One of the most influential is the strength and courage to endure the most difficult times. I have changed as a person and even my family notices that I have changed. I fought so many battles to keep the disease at bay and pushed the ultimate thresholds of tolerance, patience, etc.. It also gave me a sense of vitality and to always treasure every moment in your life because you never know what will happen next. Those snapshots and glimpses of cherished memories will always be treasured and never taken for granted … One of my parting gifts that I want to give back to Cheryl is immortality.. because her memories will forever be instilled within us and perpetuated through the stories we share. Now, hopefully we can share those stories with all the lives she has touched.
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