Cheryl A. Gerdes, 73, of Ashkum passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on June 19, 1951 in Kankakee, a daughter of Roland and Louretta (Regnier) Lafond and they preceded her in death along with two brothers, Tom and Darrell.

Cheryl married Ron Gerdes on December 11, 1971 in Beaverville and he survives. Also surviving are two sons, Rick (Carrie) Gerdes of Champaign and Randy Gerdes of Ashkum; six grandchildren, Hailee (Jason) Williams of Mattoon, McKinley Gerdes (Joseph Murphy) of St. Louis, Missouri, Cassidy (Max) Price of Onarga, Caitlyn Gerdes (Nic Vaughn) of Peru, Kylie Gerdes of Champaign, and Camden Gerdes of Clifton; two great-grandchildren, Wesley and Everly Williams and one due in November; and many nieces and nephews.

Cheryl was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her grandkids were her pride and joy, rarely missing any event they participated in. She loved having the family all in one place, listening to the stories and telling many herself. During her time at Clifton Central High School, she was known as "Mom Gerdes" to her sons' many friends. She was loved by so many, and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and also one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow in the Ashkum Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Ashkum Fire Department or Ashkum Lions Club.

Please share a memory of Cheryl at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.