Cheryl Lorraine Klunder

Our most beautiful angel was welcomed into the kingdom of heaven on a snow laden winter's morning, Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016. This is the morning our beloved Cheryl lost her battle with breast cancer.

Cheryl Lorraine Klunder was born on June 29, 1958, in Billings, to Chuck and Dorothy Smith. Cheryl was the older sister to her brother, Greg.

Cheryl married the love of her life, Mike Klunder, on Aug. 18, 1989. To this union, two beautiful children were born: Shaun in 1991 and Kenzie in 1996. Cheryl's children were her entire life, and she loved them with all of her heart and soul. Her family was the main reason she was able to put up such a strong fight against this disease. They enjoyed many activities together: hunting, fishing, raising puppies and stray cats, and spending time at their cabin in Absarokee. Cheryl was known for her beautiful flowers, a smile that could light up a room and, of course, her famous banana bread! With her favorite glass of wine in hand, she welcomed family and friends to gatherings at her home and cabin.

Cheryl graduated from Rocky Mountain College in 1996, with a bachelor of science degree in elementary education. She taught in School District 2 from 1996 until the time of her resignation in 2014. Her true calling was to become a teacher. She loved her students and the many friends she made on her teaching journey.

Cheryl was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000 and then again in 2014. Throughout her battle, Cheryl was a valiant and courageous woman and fighter. She never once complained or gave up. Cheryl was an inspiration to all who knew her. Even as she was nearing the end of her life, Cheryl was making sure others were going to be taken care of. In fact, she wiped tears away from their faces and ensured cold feet always had socks to wear. To say she will be dearly missed is a huge understatement. She was a true hero. Not only did she teach her students, but she taught her family and friends meaningful lessons of life that will endure forever.

Cheryl is survived by her husband, Mike, who never left her side up until her last breath; her children, Shaun and Kenzie; her parents, Chuck and Dorothy; her brother, Greg; brothers-in-law, Scott (Beth) and Tom (Barb); nephews, Ryan and Lane; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents.

The family would like to thank RiverStone Hospice, Dr. Patrick Cobb, and the nurses and staff at the Frontier Cancer for their amazing care.

Services for Cheryl will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at First Presbyterian Church, 2420 13th St. W., Billings, with Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

Memorials for Cheryl may be made to: Pack The Place in Pink at Skyview High School or to St. Jude Children's Hospital.