Cheryl L (Brown) Vanderlinden

Cheryl lost her 14+ year battle to metastatic breast cancer on  Saturday, March 12  at home in rural Delano, surrounded by her family. A beautiful soul, inside and out, with the heart of a lion, fiercely maternal, tenaciously independent and a relentless survivor. A warrior and a Marine Mom. The world is a better place and we are better people for her gifts. Born in Buffalo, MN, May 18, 1958, she was a lifelong resident of Delano.

She was preceded in death by sister, Debbie Gabrelcik; parents, Ambrose and Lorraine Brown; father-in-law, Dale Vanderlinden; brother-in-law, Thomas Lobitz.

Survived by husband of 42 years, Mike; children, Erik, Abby (Joe) Lorentz, and Megan; grandchildren, Mason, Logan, Bennett, Hazel, Lorraine and Jameson; sisters, Sandy Lobitz and Janice Bogenrief; many nieces and nephews.

Cheryl was an amazing wife, dedicated Mother and doting “Gigi”. Her duty to family kept her grounded and focused. She was uncompromising in her refusal to be defined by her wheelchair or physical abilities. She was selfless always and never ever complained. As an empty nester she was able to travel frequently, even after her diagnosis. Visiting Ireland, southern California, Bethesda, MD/Washington DC, Wisconsin and most recently Washington State to visit and support family. She was also able to travel with the best of friends to Mexico, Yosemite, Acadia, Alaska, the bourbon trail, the UP and Wisconsin. Frequently entertaining friends and family at home.

Her professional life was that of a nonprofit fundraiser.  A guru of sorts, raising more than 22 million dollars in donations for the causes of Courage Center, Lutheran Social Services and Catholic Charities of Mpls. and St. Paul. She took great personal satisfaction from her work. It allowed her to provide for her family while making a significant impact in the lives those less fortunate. She believed in the mission and was all-in for each of these worthy organizations.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Thurs. March 17, with visitation one hour before, at The Church of Our Lady of the Lake, 2385 Commerce Blvd., Mound. Private interment.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Lutheran Social Services, Catholic Charities of Mpls. and St. Paul, Angel Foundation and Semper Fi Fund.