My mom's obituary

Cheryl Ruth (Albada) Slater

January 10, 1944 - November 12, 2012

SALEM - Cheryl Albada Slater, 68, of Salem, passed away on November 12, 2012 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing.

She was born on January 10, 1944 in Bellingham, Washington to Francis and Grace Albada. Cheryl was a lifelong Salem resident, and a graduate of North Salem High School, class of 1961. In August, she attended her 50th high school reunion and enjoyed reconnecting with so many friends. Cheryl worked as a histologist at Salem Hospital for 25 years. She was happiest being at home, "seeing what the day might bring" and enjoying the company of so many friends, near and far. She was an extremely giving and open person who had the ability to connect with just about anyone she met. She loved to laugh and always had a quick-witted comeback.

On September 28, 1963, Cheryl married Stuart Slater, her husband of almost 48 years, until his passing in 2011. She is survived by her sister Janis Brooks, and brother, Jeff Albada. Being a mother was Cheryl's greatest joy in life, and she was most proud of her 4 children. She loved nothing more than seeing them as friends in adulthood: Greg (Susan), Portland; Kathy (Dan) Moore, Portland; Mark (Claudine), Portland; and Susan Cotter (Seattle).

Cheryl was a fun 'Gramma' and always treasured the time that she spent spoiling her family, especially her seven grandchildren: Grace (13), Ella (10), Caroline (8), Christopher (8), Nathan (8), Catie (8), and Will (5).

Cheryl lived a life that was full of family, friendships, and laughs. She will be missed.

If you would like to make a donation in honor of Cheryl's life, the family asks that it be made to www.salemhospitalfoundation.org on behalf of the incredible nurses in the ICU who cared for her in her last days. A celebration of Cheryl's life will be held on Saturday, November 24th at the Salem Red Lion.