Cherry McElwee
May 06, 2020
Cherry C. McElwee, 70, passed away at her home in Des Moines on May 6, 2020. She was born on February 25, 1950, to Thurston and Evelyn Burkholder.
Cherry made a career in the medical field and worked at Clark County Hospital and Chariton Memorial Hospital for many years. She retired from the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines as a medical lab technician.
Cherry was a member of Highland Park Presbyterian Church. She was involved in many activities, a favorite being Senior’s on the Move.
Cherry will be remembered for her great sense of humor and love of dogs. One of her greatest pastimes was traveling with her husband Mike. Many trips were spent in South Dakota visiting her brother or traveling to see other family members as she enjoyed socializing and spending time with loved ones.
Cherry is survived by her son, Chad Cooper; grandchildren, Alicia Harper and Krista Cooper; great-grandchildren, Rylie, Jax, and Karma; brother, Larry Burkholder; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Mike McElwee; and her brother, Lonnie Burkholder.
Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave. in Des Moines. We kindly ask you to be mindful of your time greeting the family as we must work within the Covid-19 restrictions. A graveside service will follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Cherry.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Kathy Worster
05/11/2020
I am so sorry for the loss in your family.
I grew up with Cherry going to Casady, Irving and North High School together.. Recently I had seen her at High School reunions and at class lunches in Des Moines.
She will be missed by the class of '68 She always had a great smile for everyone.
Marilyn Carlson
05/10/2020
I worked with Cherry at the VA. The last time I saw her we had a great visit. I was surprised and saddened to read of her death. Please accept my condolences. Cherry was such a sweet woman and will be missed by all.
phyllis arbogast (Betty)
05/08/2020
Chad, I am so sorry about your Mom. I will call later. Take care. Love and prayers Betty
Pastor Bill OConnell
05/07/2020
Prayers and condolence to Cherry's family and the friends. Cherry was a regular attender at St Paul Presbyterian Church of Johnston and was well liked here. We will miss her and pray that the peace of Christ and the promises of eternal life in Him will carry you through the days to come.