Obituary of Cherri Lynn Eitel

Cherri Lynn Eitel, went into the loving arms of her Lord Jesus, on January, 5, 2022. 

Cherri, a longtime resident of Silver Spring, Maryland, was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on November 11, 1959 to William E. Eitel and Shirley E. (Clark) Eitel. She was raised in Kentwood, Michigan where she graduated from East Kentwood High School in 1978. Cherri went on to get two Associates Degrees, one from Michigan Christian College in 1982 and Grand Rapids Junior College in 1985. 

Cherri had challenges in her life. She was born with cerebral palsy and was unable to walk without braces or crutches. She eventually was using a wheelchair to get around. 

She was determined and strong willed. She moved to Washington, DC and eventually to Silver Spring, Maryland where she was able to live an independent life until several years ago.

Cherri had several occupations in her lifetime. The one she was most proud of was being an Occupational Therapy Assistant. 

As an active member of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church, Cherri served on the Disability Task Force. She was pivotal in working with architects to design the current front lobby and handicap entrance to the building. She also taught Sunday School and assisted with fundraising. Cherri made colorful and creative gifts for those in need and attended many meetings where she advocated for the disabled.  For many years she rode the Metro from Silver Spring to the church in her electric scooter with her service dog Blanche riding in the basket. They brought smiles to the faces of those they met on their weekly journey. A friend said, "She made us laugh." And we loved her for it. 

Cherri was predeceased by her parents, Shirley and William Eitel; grandparents, Daniel and Charlotte Clark and Bertha Atchison; Brother-in-law, Clarence McClurkin, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was also predeceased by the love of her life, her service dog, Blanche. 

Cherri is survived by sisters, Glenyce Jansma (Rich), Brenda McClurkin (Rich Parnell) and brother, Bill Eitel (Ellen), and many nephews and a niece. She is also survived by her longtime friend and advocate, Cathy Schultheis. 

Cherri was a member of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC. She will be cremated and inurned in the columbarium at the church. A service will be held at a later date.