Cheryl Van Drimmelen Conatser Obituary (1955 - 2012)

Cheryl Van Drimmelen Conatser, wonderful wife, mother, "Nama", aunt, and friend passed away February 21, 2012 at home, after a courageous 5-year fight with ovarian cancer. Mom was born October 7, 1955 in Ogden, Utah to George Van Drimmelen and Mildred Hilton Van Drimmelen. She graduated from Bonneville High in 1973, where she enjoyed her time as a Lakette. On January 11, 1974, Mom married Jeff Conatser. They had many exciting adventures during their years together, but later separated. Mom cherished her work as a nail tech, a business she enjoyed for nearly 30 years. She treasured the life-long friendships she developed with each of her "ladies", all of whom were like family to her. These dear friends loved and admired Mom's beautiful spirit, kind heart, and selflessness. The greatest loves of Mom's life were her children, Jeff Jr. and Kari, and her grandbabies, Mykel, Sam, Charli, Maddy and Kamryn. The kiddos absolutely adored their "Nama", and loved spending every minute with her. Mom truly treasured the times spent with our families. She undoubtedly "wrote the book" on how to be the "World's Best Grandma". Mom loved to be outside. Whether it was walking, biking, or hiking, she enjoyed anything that would take her out into the warm sunshine. Her favorite vacations were spent at the ocean, and also the hilarious trips to the AARP conventions with her best friends Marcia Parisi and Kathy Stahler. Mom was an inspiration to us all. She was incredibly humble, positive, and kind. Everyone admired her for that "never give up" attitude in the face of any adversity. Mom found the silver lining in every situation, teaching us all how to deal with life's trials with strength, grace, and laughter. She would do anything to make the lives of those around her better and easier. Mom was truly a blessing to everyone lucky enough to know her. Mom is survived by her son Jeff Jr. (Cassandra), North Ogden, UT, daughter Kari (Paul Merrill), Fort Rucker, AL, and 5 grandchildren. She also leaves behind many in-laws, nieces and nephews, and dozens of dear friends. Mom was the sole surviving member of her family. While she will be missed by all she left behind, Mom is rejoicing at a reunion with her entire family. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Pat Langeveld, brother Chad Van Drimmelen, and brother Greg Van Drimmelen. Mom and her family would like to thank Huntsman Cancer Institute & Hospital and her amazing team of doctors: Dr. Theresa Werner, Dr. Esther Kannepel, Nurse Stephanie, Dr. Karen Zempolich, as well as Gretchen Faucett and Dr. Charles Joseph, who all fought to give her 5 more precious years with her family. Also many thanks to the sweet hospices nurses, Heidi and Robyn, who helped care for Mom during the final weeks of her life. A memorial to celebrate Mom's life will be held at Myers Mortuary in Ogden, 845 Washington Blvd on Saturday February 25th 2012 at 1 pm. All are welcome to attend a gathering prior to the service from 12 to 12:55 pm to pay their personal respects to Mom. In lieu of flowers, Mom would appreciate donations made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.myers-mortuary.com VisitationMyers Mortuary - Ogden 100 Monroe Blvd. Ogden, UT 84404 February 25, 2012 12:00 PM - 12:55 PM ServiceMyers Mortuary - Ogden 1875 Monroe Blvd Ogden, Utah 84401 February 25, 2012 1:00 PM