Cheryl Lee Henke

Cheryl Lee Henke, 76, entered eternal rest on September 1, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center.

Cheryl was born on January 5, 1949, in Mitchell, South Dakota, to Lucille Schoenfelder and Murl Jess Stone. She was the mother of three daughters: Lisa Regas, Trina Berkelo, and Lacy Larson, who carry forward her love and strength. In her last few years, she shared her life with her partner, Craig Pouti, whose companionship brought her joy and comfort.

Cheryl carried within herself a deep sense of intuition and presence. She cherished the life of the mind, delighting in intellectual banter and the spark of curiosity. Quick witted and funny, she had a way of making people laugh while also inspiring thoughtful conversation. A true lover of history, she expressed this passion through her appreciation for antiques, drawn to the beauty and meaning of objects that carried the past into the present. She was also a gifted storyteller whose natural charisma drew people in, weaving words that connected hearts and sparked imagination. Cheryl was proud to have been part of the hippie movement, embracing a life that was unconventional, rebellious, and brave. She thought outside the box and lived by her own terms, never afraid to challenge expectations or stand out as herself. She believed deeply in justice and human rights, values that guided her sense of compassion and fairness throughout her life. She filled her days with the richness of music, books, movies, and art, always finding beauty in the creativity of others. Animals held a sacred place in her heart, especially her beloved cats, as she recognized the innocence and wonder of the earth’s creatures.

Cheryl is survived by her daughters, Lisa Regas, Trina Berkelo, and Lacy Larson, her cherished grandchildren, Ashley and Alexander Witt, her great grandchildren, Taylor and Ava Matson and Mason Harris, and her partner, Craig Pouti. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucille Schoenfelder and Murl Jess Stone.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Craig Pouti for the loving care and steadfast support he gave Cheryl during her final journey.

A private family memorial has already been held in Cheryl’s honor.

“One thing I've learned… life is a paradox. In order to heal you must hurt, in order to love you must break open, and in order to have peace you must face chaos. Never regret any experience in your life, because it is always meant to bring you balance. The light always follows.” — Author Unknown.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that donations be made in Cheryl's honor to your local humane society. 

Cheryl's favorite poem ~

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/55993/renascence