Cheryl Altman was a radiant force of nature—equal parts warmth, wit, and unwavering strength. To her family, she was the anchor. To her friends, the life of the party. And to everyone lucky enough to know her, Cheryl was someone who made the world feel just a little bit brighter.

Born with a spark and blessed with a razor-sharp sense of humor, Cheryl had a magnetic personality that drew people in. She was a brilliant writer, a trivia whiz with Jeopardy-level recall, and a natural storyteller whose sarcasm was as quick as her laugh was loud. Whether she was hosting holidays in her warm, bustling kitchen or spoiling her grandkids with banana muffins and treasure hunts, Cheryl made every moment feel like a celebration.

She lived to love—and she loved fiercely. Cheryl and her husband Jim built a home overflowing with joy, adventure, and deep devotion. Their sons, Alex and Eric, grew up with unforgettable traditions: road trips, ballgames, summers in Traverse City, and all the little moments in between. Cheryl never missed a soccer match, a baseball game, or a chance to show up for her boys. When Alex married Kari and their children Hudson and Reece came along, Cheryl stepped into her role as Nana with pride and purpose. Sleepovers, s’mores by the lake, nonstop treats—she adored her grandkids, and they adored her right back.

Cheryl’s generosity knew no bounds. She gave her time, her energy, her humor, and her heart freely and fully. She nurtured lifelong friendships—some lasting over 65 years—and created a home that was always open, always warm, always welcoming. Her presence lit up every room, and her loyalty and love left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her.

When Cheryl was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she fought with everything she had. Setback after setback, she refused to give up—because she had people to love, milestones she longed to see, and memories left to make. Her resilience during those final months was extraordinary: through pain and uncertainty, she kept showing up with courage, grace, and grit. Cheryl passed away in January 2025, held close by her family, and surrounded by love.

Team Cheryl was founded to honor that legacy—to carry her light forward, to fund life-saving research, and to fight for a future where no family has to endure this heartbreak. Cheryl may be gone, but her love story lives on—in every memory, every act of kindness, and every life she continues to inspire.