Cheri Lynn Kuikman Widlacki

Cheri Lynn Kuikman Widlacki

Age 62 of Essex, Illinois and formerly of Crestwood and Bourbonnais, Illinois, passed away surrounded by her children on April 4, 2025 at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, Illinois.

Born December 19, 1962 in Evergreen Park, Illinois, Cheri Lynn was the daughter of Kenneth and Jean Kuikman and Betty (Fedderly) Milton. She was raised in Crestwood, Illinois.

Cheri was a dedicated and hard-working woman who took pride in her job and truly loved her coworkers and customers. Fondly known as "your neighborhood gas station lady," Cheri greeted everyone with a warm smile, a quick wit, and perhaps a clever wisecrack to brighten their day. Her door was always open—figuratively and literally—and she was always ready to feed an army at a moment’s notice. Whether you needed a meal, a laugh, or a place to feel at home, Cheri made sure you had it.

A passionate Green Bay Packers fan, Cheri wore her green and gold with pride, though she loved the friendly rivalry with Bears fans just as much. "Go Pack Go!" was more than a chant—it was a piece of her vibrant spirit.

Known for her welcoming heart, sharp humor, and silly antics, Cheri brought joy, comfort, and connection to everyone lucky enough to know her. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and love lives on in the countless lives she touched.

Survivors include her children: Marissa Osborne, Kelly and lan Issert, Carrie Widlacki, Billy and Susie Widlacki and Jenny and Josh LaGrange; grandchildren: Lukas Billet, Allen Peace, Bobby Smith, Ian, Ryker and Rowan Issert, Jaidyn and Jasmyn LaGrange, Ally, Lilly and Sammy Widlacki, brothers: Dave and Linda Kuikman, Dan and Chris Kuikman, Rick and Jen Kuikman, and Jeff Kuikman, and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Cheri was preceded in death by her mother Betty Jean, father Kenneth Kuikman, and brother, Joey Kuikman, as well as her loving Nana and Bombpa.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Thursday, April 10, 2025 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. In light of Cheri’s spirit, those attending are encouraged to wear football attire or her favorite color purple.

Funeral services will follow Friday morning, April 11, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Whittum from Ignite Christian Church officiating. Graveside service to immediately follow. Afterwards, friends and family are welcome to join a luncheon at Ignite Christian Church, 1180 W. First St. Braidwood, Illinois, at 12:30 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Cheri’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)

Finally, GO PACK GO!!!!!