Cheryl Christine Gustafson

A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, July 31, 2015, at Ankeny First United Methodist Church in Ankeny with burial to follow at Lincoln Cemetery near Alleman. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Ankeny First United Methodist Church.

Cheryl Christine Hildreth was born May 18, 1947 in Des Moines; she was the daughter of Former Polk County Sheriff Wilbur and Clara (Alleman) Hildreth. Growing up in Ankeny, Cheryl received her education from Ankeny High School, graduating in the class of 1965. Following graduation, Cheryl took a position with Nationwide Insurance where she made a career for 50 years until her retirement on June 5, 2015. Cheryl also worked at Mill Pond Retirement Community during the evening and weekends.

On February 24, 1968, Cheryl was united in marriage to Arthur Byron Gustafson. The couple made their home in Ankeny and were blessed with one daughter, Cheri Christine. As a family they enjoyed venturing on numerous family trips. Many of them were taken to Las Vegas and California and twice to Europe with Byron. Cheryl was an avid Iowa State Cyclone fan. She also enjoyed reading and taking care of her flower garden. More than anything, Cheryl was content and most at comfort spending time with Byron, Cheri, and her family who she loved dearly.

Cheryl will be deeply missed by her husband of 47 years, Byron; daughter, Cheri Christine; brother, Marv (Sara) Hildreth; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Clara Hildreth; brothers, Darel Hildreth and Gene Hildreth.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association or “You Are” the Mayo Clinic of Rochester, MN.