In loving memory ~
Robert Edward Cherry
September 22, 1927 - November 8, 2024
Born in Nelson, BC, and raised in Kaslo, Bob Cherry spent his childhood fishing, helping with the family business, and probably getting into just enough mischief to keep things interesting. His family later moved to Vancouver, but by 19, he was already shaping young minds as a teacher in Squamish. In 1950, he moved to Pemberton, where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Anne Cherry (née Purden).
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Elizabeth Anne Cherry
February 21, 1932 - October 25, 2024
Born on the family farm in Pemberton (Donnybrook Farm), Betty learned the value of hard work early—milking cows, pitching hay, and wrangling potato sacks bigger than she was. With much of her education done by correspondence, she became a talented cook, seamstress, and all-around powerhouse.
Bob and Betty's love story began in the early 1950s, with Bob making the trek to see Betty as often as he could. Without fail, he would arrive just in time for lunch—a habit he kept up for the next 70+ years. Every morning before breakfast, he'd ask what was on the menu for lunch and dinner, as if he had a hollow leg that needed constant refilling. They married on February 22, 1954, beginning an adventure that took them from Takysie to Castlegar and eventually to Creston, where they raised their three children—Linda, Bruce, and Mark. During summers, Bob pursued his master's degree in education, and after earning it, he spent time in Victoria marking provincial exams—proof that even teachers don't escape homework.
In 1976, they put down roots in Ashcroft, where they ran a business together for 18 years while Betty also built a successful drapery shop. After years of hard work, they embraced a well-earned retirement. In 2015, they made their second-to-last move, settling in Kamloops.
Bob and Betty endured unthinkable loss, having to say goodbye to all three of their children. Yet through it all, they remained unwavering pillars of love, strength, and resilience. Their legacy lives on through their grandchildren—Tamra Whitaker (Steve), Kayla Wolfe (Eamon), Brandon Cherry (Megan), and Alisha Cherry (Axel)—as well as their great-grandchildren, Mark & Aubry Whitaker, Grace & Callum Wolfe, and Stetson Isaac, with one more little Cherry on the way.
Betty's kindness and infectious humor brightened the lives of everyone she met. She passed peacefully, surrounded by love. Bob, with his sharp wit and love of teaching, never stopped inspiring those around him. A devoted fisherman and gardener, he always found the silver lining— even when the fish weren't biting.
In keeping with Bob and Betty's wishes, there will be no celebration of life. Instead, those who wish to honor their memory are encouraged to make a donation to Kamloops Hospice, whose compassionate care meant so much to them. Donations can be made at Kamloops Hospice.
Together, Bob and Betty built a life full of love, laughter, and an unwavering curiosity about what was for lunch/dinner.
They will be deeply missed but fondly remembered,
their stories and spirit living on in all who knew them.