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2015 FLORAGRAPH

 CHERYL ANN KENNEDY

Cornea Donor
Age 63 ~ Lindstrom, MN
Donated on 8/5/2013
at Fairview Lakes Regional Medical Center

Sponsored by Minnesota Lions Eye Bank


Cheryl Ann Kennedy loved her family and helping others. She was married 45 years to her husband, Pat, and together they had two children and four grandchildren whom she adored. She worked in law offices and insurance agencies, taught Sunday School, and helped Pat coach T-Ball. Volunteering and helping others was a main focus for Cheryl. She held offices in the Chisago Lakes Lions Club and was honored for her years of service. In July 2013, Cheryl was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. She was 63 when she gave her final gift, the gift of sight to two women. Pat said, "Her life of love continues through her eye donation."


Cheryl's Story

Cheryl Ann Kennedy loved her family and helping others. Married 45 years, she met her husband, Pat, on a blind date during high school. Pat and Cheryl raised two children, and the family enjoyed camping along the Gunflint Trail, as well as spending time at other Minnesota north shore resorts and at their cabin on Sturgeon Lake.

During her career, Cheryl worked in law offices and insurance agencies. She taught Sunday School and helped Pat coach T-ball. In her free time, Cheryl enjoyed reading, gardening, vacation trips with her sisters, and being with her family, especially her four grandchildren.

"Cheryl was ready to do anything her kids and grandkids needed," Pad confirmed. During the last few months of her life, Cheryl helped to plan one granddaughter's high school graduation celebration and another's wedding.

Volunteering and helping others was a key focus for both Cheryl and Pat. Pat joined Chisago Lakes Lions and served in club and district leadership positions. One of the few women in the club, Cheryl became treasurer in 2006 and secretary in 2011. "Anyone involved with Lions knows those are two of the most demanding positions," Pat emphasized. Cheryl managed all of the club's financials and planned the annual Christmas party and Cadillac dinner. Her service was recognized with honors - Chisago Lakes Lion of the Year, Helen Keller and Melvin Jones awards.

 In July 2013, Cheryl was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. At 63, she spent her remaining weeks with her family. Her final gift, the gift of sight through cornea donation, helped restore sight for two women.

 "The loss of Cheryl was rather sudden, and we miss her so much," said Pat. "Her life of love continues through her eye donation."