Todd Anthony Cherek

Todd moved through life like a gentle burst of sunlight, warm and welcoming to everyone he met. A true social butterfly, he had a rare gift for turning strangers into friends, and he never ended a day without bringing laughter or a smile to someone’s face. His Saber Cat family in Tucson held a special place in his heart, and he was always the first to offer help, even if it meant giving the shirt off his back.

Todd was fortunate to know great love twice. With his first partner, he built a family and welcomed four beautiful children. Later in life, through the quiet grace of friendship, he found his soulmate in his wife, Mystika. Before they even realized they were in love, they had already become each other’s closest confidants. Anyone who saw Todd could see how deeply he adored her. They walked through life together, side by side, sharing everything. His greatest joy, though, was always his children and grandchildren—each one a bright light he loved to speak about with pride.

He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Rosary M. Cherek, who passed in October 2016, and whose memory he carried tenderly.

Todd is survived by his devoted wife, Mystika Cherek; his father, Mark Cherek; his brother, David Cherek, and David’s wife, Letha; his nieces, Kenzie Allen and Olivia Cherek; and his great-nieces and great-nephew. He also lives on through the family who meant the world to him: Nichole Salazar and her husband, Emanuel, and their children, Andre, Camila, and Noemy; Lauren Cherek and her daughter, Joana; Dominik Cherek and his fiancée, Stephanie Rendon; and Bianca Cherek.

Todd also leaves behind a half sister, Dena, 2 half brothers, Eric, and Mark, and an extended family who stood by him through some challenges, lifted him with their support, and loved him dearly.