Cheryl Jean Gilliland, beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Cheryl was born May 13, 1975 in Stillwater, MN to parents Leland and Jean (Jones) Kendrick. She attended and graduated from Osceola High School with the class of 1993. She grew up surrounded by love and a sense of adventure, qualities that defined her throughout life.

After relocating to the Twin Cities, Cheryl’s journey took her to the vibrant energy of New York and then to the sunny shores of California. It was there she met Robert, and together they began building the family she cherished. Eventually, family brought her back home to Wisconsin.

Cheryl’s life was filled with spunk, spontaneity, and a love for exploring. Whether she was roaming sandy beaches with her daughters (“The 3 E’s”), checking out new boutiques, or indulging in the latest restaurants and cuisines, she embraced every experience with enthusiasm.

A loyal, authentic friend, Cheryl maintained bonds across long distances, always taking the time to connect. Her impressive work ethic transcended the workplace whether she was tackling professional challenges or diving into new personal projects. From meticulous gardening and raising backyard chickens to natural health coaching, she pursued each interest with thoughtful research, creativity, and determination.

Her talents were many, her passions broad, and her generosity boundless. Cheryl’s strength, warmth, and authenticity touched everyone fortunate enough to know her and she will be deeply missed.

Though our hearts ache, we find comfort knowing Cheryl is with Jesus, and we hold fast to the hope of one day being reunited.

Cheryl is survived by her daughters, Emma, Eden, and Eliza; parents, Lee and Jean; siblings Jason Kendrick, Jennifer (Jay) Tonneson, Daniel Kendrick (Jackie McKelvey), Stephanie (Jordan) Martell, and Rebekah Kendrick (Riley Freeman); Nephews, Jacob Kendrick, and Zachary and Jackson Tonneson; Nieces, Lydia, Kora, Adriel, and Arewyn Martell; other extended family and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Delbert and Margot Kendrick and Donald and Loretta Jones; and her infant brother, Timothy Kendrick.

Memorial services for Cheryl will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, July 23 , 2025 at the Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia, MN. Visitation one hour prior at church. Evening visitation held Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola, WI from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM.

Last Update: Jul 21, 2025 7:33 am CDT