PETERSBURG — Cheryl “Cheri” Lynn Stienmetz, 68 of Petersburg, passed away on Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, due to complications from her Parkinsons’ disease. She was born Dec. 3, 1952, in Rockford, daughter to Harold and Catherine (Smith) McGill. 

Mourning her passing is her daughter, Tricia Ewald-Turek (Ty) of Petersburg; sister, Wanda (Gary) Haub of West Brooklyn; nieces, Jennifer Haub of Chicago, Andrea (Corey) McLaughlin, of Rochelle; nephew, Michael (Sarah) McGill, of Rochelle; and granddaughters, Olivia and Sophie Turek of Petersburg. 

Cheri is now reunited with her parents; her brother, David McGill; and her son, Jeffery Ewald, who all preceded her in death. 

Cheri loved being a mother, but lived to be a grandmother. She enjoyed watching her two granddaughters grow up, and cherished the countless memories she made with them. She loved spending time in the kitchen and was happiest when she could spoil a loved one with a home-cooked meal. She took pride in her flower and vegetable gardens and kept herself busy canning vegetables every summer. She was usually found relaxing by a backyard campfire and loved sharing her home with her beloved pets.

There was never a dull moment when Cheri was around. She made everyone feel loved and important, and had a laugh that was contagious. She was able to make fun of herself and loved a great joke. She took great joy in being ornery and cantankerous. Even up to her death, despite the fact that she could no longer speak, she could still entertain people with her vivid facial expressions and body language. Even though her body gave out, her spirit never did. 

Due to current COVID-19 circumstances, cremation rites will be accorded and burial will be held at Ashton Cemetery in Ashton, Illinois, at a later date. 

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.