Cheryl (Cher) Lynn Cronican-Walker, a beloved poet, dedicated volunteer, and kind soul, passed away on June 14, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on October 7, 1944, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Robert and Irene Cronican, Cher's life was a testament to love, creativity, social justice and service.

Cher was a published poet whose words touched the hearts of many. She won numerous awards for her writing, including accolades at Poet's Night Out, and her work continues to inspire readers. Beyond her poetry, Cher found joy in scrapbooking and collecting dolls, amassing a cherished collection of over 100 dolls that brought her great happiness.

Cher initially graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in Education. After teaching English Literature and coaching Debate, she set her sights on & received a Masters of Social Work degree from Michigan State University, a choice that would effect the rest of her life.

Cher was a therapist @ Ingham County Community Mental Health which is where she met her future husband, Marshall. They married in 1979 and moved to the Muskegon area to further their careers. Cher & Marshall grew their family through adoption of AeRanie & Amalea. During this time, Cher developed an international family support group which led to a career in facilitating international adoptions.

Upon moving to Interlochen, Cher continued her work in adoption, opened a private practice specializing in providing interpersonal therapy and was instrumental in developing the Masters degree satellite program in social work with Grand Valley State University in Traverse City. A dedicated volunteer, Cher was a loyal supporter of the Traverse City Film Festival, where she contributed her time and passion for many years.

Cher & Marshall shared a love of travel having been to Australia, South Korea (to assist with escorting babies to their adoptive families in the U.S.) and especially loved the Connemara region of Ireland which was their favorite destination.

Cher's warmth, kindness, and generosity of spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She was known for her sweet nature and the profound impact she had on those around her. Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of the thousands of lives she touched.

Cher is survived by her loving husband, Marshall, her daughter AeRanie, her foster daughter, Maggie, and countless friends and admirers. Her presence will be dearly missed, but her memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration.

A celebration of Cher's life will be held at a future date with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations or remembrances be made in Cher's honor to www.goodgaali.org/donate which supports healthcare, families & infants in Uganda.