April 5, 1942 - Dec. 7, 2015

D. Michael Cherry, known to all as "Mike" passed away on Dec. 7. He was 73. Mike was born in El Centro, CA on April 5, 1942 to Frank and Esther Cherry. He grew up in Southern California until the family moved to Novato, where he graduated from Novato High School in 1960, and then completed his Bachelor's degree in History and Music at University of Nevada Reno in 1964. In his years after college, he worked for Shell Oil and he raced Formula V at Sears Point and all over the U.S. While in Reno, Mike belonged to the Sports Car Club of America and competed with his 1961 Porsche Roadster.

Many in Vacaville know Mike from his business, "The Cherry Pit". Prior to starting the Cherry Pit, he owned and operated Shell Gas Stations on Peabody and Merchant Roads.

Mike was a beloved and proud husband, father and grandfather. His hobbies included traveling the world, going on long drives, history, all things Formula 1, and his love of music, especially Latin music. He played the trombone and was also band leader for "Sapo Guapo" and helped organize the Vacaville Jazz Festival. Mike had played Jazz/Dixie Land music in the Vacaville Fiesta Days Parade every year since 1978. Most people will remember Mike for always having a smile on his face.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Catherine Cherry; daughter and sons, Annalise McDonald, Kevin (Aon) Cherry, Christopher (Karen) Mraz, Michael (Jessica) Mraz, David (Michelle) Cherry and Brandon (Brittany) Cherry; grandchildren, Justin, Mark, Megan, Jordan, Veronica, Scott, Bay, Jack, Charlotte, Liam, Emily, and River; sister, Hila Elkins; brother, Dicken Cherry. He is also survived by his former wife, Madeline and a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Peggy and brother, Arthur.

There will be a Mass of Christian burial at St. Mary's Catholic Church at 10 a.m., on Tuesday, Dec. 22, with a viewing prior starting at 9 a.m. Father Humberto Gomez will officiate. He will be laid to rest at the Vacaville-Elmira Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements by Vaca Hills Chapel Funeral Home 707-446-3233 www.vacahillschapel.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Reporter from Dec. 15 to Dec. 20, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for D. Cherry

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14 Entries

cindy jennison

September 15, 2016

So sorry for your family's loss. I worked for mike at his station many years ago, always had that charming smile and wonderful personality! He was my dear friend and has always been in my heart. I feel lucky that I knew him.

Steve Smith

December 24, 2015

What an interesting guy! I'm sorry I never met him. He's been everything I wanted to be: a musician, racer. I only visit my home town of Vacaville about once a year. A few times, it's been at Christmas. I always remember Santa Claus in the little sports car at the Cherry Pit!

Liz and Mary Mezaros BarberTurner Moore

December 22, 2015

Cherry family. Our prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. My sister and I used his gas stations whenever we needed gas and stuff. Always a nice guy and that big smile. Always enjoyed his music! May all your beautiful memories grant you peace! God bless you all.

December 21, 2015

Catherine,

I am so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. I am thinking of you during this difficult time. Hugs Kiffany

Esther Estrada

December 21, 2015

RIP Mikey, you will be missed,,, keep on playing ★★★★★ Esther and Ron Mesina

Julia Chukuma

December 21, 2015

catherine, i'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear husband and my friend Mike.

my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
may God grant you an abundance of comfort and peace in this most difficult time.

Gayla Jo Buringrud-Cardwell

December 17, 2015

Mike was a dear long time friend to both my husband and myself....He encouraged me not to be afraid of marriage and trying new things...He was smart and fair and questioned everything! He was on his toes. I loved him and I look up to Cathy for being always there for him and her family. loosing people you love is hard....he is still a bright star for everyone. Gayla Jo

Dixie Willoughby

December 17, 2015

Our deepest sympathy and prayers to all of Mike's family. He was a wonderful man with a great smile and laugh. We will miss him very, very much. May he rest in peace. Love and prayers to Catherine in this difficult time.

Craig and Lauren Sandberg

December 16, 2015

So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We always considered him a great friend during our 11 years in Vacaville. Truly never had a bad time when he was around. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this hard time. Nothing but good memories.Klep and Lauren

Jeannie Houck

December 16, 2015

Dear Cathy and family,
My heart and my prayers are with you during this painful time. One of my favorite memories of Mike was when he and I were Best Man and Maid of Honor at Art & Connie's wedding. He was so kind to me as the "little sister". I was always in awe of him. Then years later we came together again several times at the hospital during Art's illness and again, he was kind and loving. It's difficult when a loved one suffers from illness for a long time. I have my own experience with that and it sometimes helps to know that now they are free to watch over us with pure love. I wish you all the blessings that I know Mike wants for you.
Best regards,
Jeannie Houck

Trudy Harlan

December 16, 2015

What a great guy and will be very missed. You are such a kind family and Mike was so well liked and a real contribution to our city. When I think of Mike it's that big smile he always gave with warmth and friendship. So sorry for your loss.

Matt Roberts

December 16, 2015

What a great loss, he will be missed on this earth God bless.

Vaca Hills Chapel

December 14, 2015

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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