Obituaries
4
trees
planted in memory of Cheryl J. Criss
Obituary for Cheryl J. Criss
Peoria- Cheryl J. Criss, of Peoria, died February 7, 2023 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born April 24, 1943 in Peoria, daughter of Gilbert and Jane Evelyn (Catcott) Rimington. Cheryl met her future husband Jim Criss in 1958 at St. Francis Hospital cafeteria where he was working with Cheryl’s mother Jane. Cheryl and Jim were married March 30, 1961 in Watseka, Illinois.
Education was always important for Cheryl, a fact that she always conveyed to her children and grandchildren. She graduated from Richwoods Community High School in 1961. After having her five children, Cheryl graduated from Illinois Central College in 1974 with an Associate in Arts and Science degree. In her 50’s, she went back to college and earned her Bachelor of Science from St. Mary’s-of-the-Woods College in Terre Haute, Indiana. In addition, she earned a Master of Arts degree from St. Mary’s-of-the-Woods College when she was in her 60’s. Throughout her education journey, Cheryl served as a wonderful role model for her family and friends.
After working at Caterpillar Tractor as a draftswoman, Cheryl heard the calling from God to help couples and families in the community. While working at Lagron-Miller Company in Peoria for a number of years, she made many connections within the community and helped many people with their spiritual journeys. Cheryl worked for the Diocese of Peoria Tribunal for over 20 years, retiring in 2015. She did excellent work at the Tribunal, and most importantly, she helped many people re-establish their relationships with the church.
Always interested in learning and creating, Cheryl also was known for her many interests and hobbies, including photography, genealogy, painting, sewing, amateur astronomy, playing the cello, and gardening (especially growing flowers). Like the rest of her life, Cheryl was never afraid of trying new things especially if it enriched her life and the lives of her family members and friends.
Survivors include her husband of nearly 62 years Jim; four sons: Mark (and Darilynn) Criss of East Peoria, Tom (and Beth) Criss of DePere, Wisconsin, John Criss of Peoria, and Mike Criss of Tulsa, OK. Two sons-in-law: Ray Rosenberger and David Ely. Cheryl was eternally proud of her nine grandchildren: Melissa (and Tate) Kaiser, Eric (and Betsy) Criss, Amanda (and Nic) Radder, Robin (and David) Cook, Amber (and Andy) Zimmerman, Matt Rosenberger, Amber Crossman, Tim (and Jillian) Rosenberger, and Tori (and Laramie) Brown. 16 great- grandchildren; and proud aunt of three nephews and four nieces.
Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, sister Susanne Carano, and daughter Debbie Ely.
Visitation will be held at The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Immaculate Conception on Sunday, February 12, 2023 between the hours of 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 10:30 AM with an additional visitation being held 30 minutes prior to mass. Father Bill Miller will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded following funeral services, and Cheryl will be laid to rest in Resurrection Cemetery at a later date.
Preferred memorials in Cheryl’s memory may be made to Sophia's Kitchen, 105 N. Richard Pryor Place, Peoria, IL 61605.
Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Cheryl’s memorial page via social media.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)
Previous Events
Visitation
Sunday
12
Feb
3:00 PM
- 5:00 PM
Cathedral of St. Mary
607 NE Madison Ave
Peoria, IL 61603
Visitation
Monday
13
Feb
10:00 AM
- 10:30 AM
Cathedral of St. Mary
607 NE Madison Ave
Peoria, IL 61603
Funeral Mass
Monday
13
Feb
10:30 AM
Cathedral of St. Mary
607 NE Madison Ave
Peoria, IL 61603
Cemetery Details
Location
Resurrection Cemetery & Mausoleum
7519 N Allen Rd
Peoria, IL 61614
Memorial Contribution
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