Cheryl Sue Kline, born on September 20, 1937 in Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024 at Freeport Memorial Hospital. She was the beloved daughter of Elbert "Lyle" and Gertrude (Smith) Kline.

A proud graduate of Freeport High School in the Class of 1955, Cheryl went on to earn a degree in special education in 1959 from Illinois State University.  She dedicated over 35 years to teaching mentally and physically handicapped children in Arlington Heights, Freeport, and Rockford, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues through her commitment to education and inclusion.

After retiring from teaching, she worked for many years for the city of Rockford at the parking garage near the court house.  She enjoyed engaging with people, and became friends with the those who came through there regularly.

Cheryl shared a loving partnership with Carol Sue Chunn for over 50 years which was formally recognized in a civil union on February 7, 2012. Cheryl is survived by Carol, her brother John (Nancy) of Wonder Lake, her cherished nieces Michelle (Byron) Graham, Gretchen(Dan) Pongetti, and nephew Brad (Julie) Horton, and thirteen great nieces and nephews in the Kline family.  She is also survived by mother-in-law Bernece Hill, sisters-in-law Bonita Townsend and Harriet (Randy) Woker, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and her loyal beagle, Macey.

Cheryl greatly enjoyed bowling.  She bowled on women's leagues in Freeport and Rockford, was on both state and national championship leagues, and served as President of the Illinois Women's Bowling Association.  She treasured time spent visiting and laughing with friends and family.  She was also an active member of a sorority in Rockford for many years, fostering lifelong friendships.  She met monthly in Freeport with a group of high school friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant brother, Evan Lee Kline, sister-in-law Rebecca Long, brothers-in-law Robert Long and Malcolm Townsend.

Cheryl's warmth and dedication to others and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.  May her memory bring comfort to those she touched throughout her remarkable life.

A celebration of life will be held at Walker Mortuary on January 18, 2025 at 2:00PM.  A visitation will precede the service at 1:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name.