Obituary of Cheryl A Deschene

Cheryl A. Deschene, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday September 24, 2017 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston after a lengthy battle with cancer. Cheryl was surrounded by members of her family during her final moments. She was a widow of Robert Ryans who passed away in 2007. Cheryl was the Daughter of Robert and Lucille Deschene. She was born in Beverly MA, and lived in Salem MA all of her life. Cheryl graduated Salem High School in 1975. She found happiness in her career as a bus driver for many years transporting the future generations of America to and from school in their journey to adulthood. Cheryl is survived by her Son and Daughter in-law James and Kalene Ryans, Great Niece Amanda Davey-Verity, her husband Shane Verity, their sons Adam and Colton, and Sister Janice. Cheryl is also survived by Nieces Gina, Tami, and Krista, their children Danny, Justin, Vanessa, Tyson, and Brayson, and longtime companion and dear friend Joanne Simmons. Cheryl also left behind her closest companion of the last 8 years with whom she spent almost every moment, her dog Laika. She was predeceased by her older sister Roberta Deschene. Cheryl spent her free time with family and friends enjoying all things arts and crafts including building and tinkering, mechanical repairs of all kinds, and crocheting. Cheryl was perhaps best known for her favorite hobby and obsession, Halloween, when she turned her home into a spectacle known across Salem. Cheryl’s home took on its own identity around Halloween known locally as Mystery Manor, a family friendly attraction that she poured her heart and soul into year after year sparing no details for nothing more than the smiles and laughter of the children and their families as they explored their way from the front yard through the house to a cauldron of candy awaiting them at the other end, she has since passed on the tradition to her niece Amanda. Cheryl also had a spot in her heart for all thing 1950s, especially cars. Cheryl often spent hours with her great nephews Adam and Colton looking at model cars, flipping through car books or simply exchanging pictures via text of cars that one another might like. They developed a special love for VWs. Cheryl will be remembered for her big heart, acts of selflessness and quirky personality that set her apart from the rest of us. Whether it was a text good morning, a crochet doll donated to children in need, or a 5-minute stroll through a Mystery Manor attraction that took months to create, we will always remember Cheryl for the priceless service that she provided us, Smiles, Love and Happiness. Whether she is laid to rest peacefully, or to enjoy eternity in a tropical paradise, or meandering through the next life in a creepy Halloween haunt filled with her favorite ghouls and goblins, we ask that you please join us in remembering Cheryl for the amazing person she was and to send her off peacefully to a better place. Graveside services will be held for family and friends on Saturday October 14th 2017 at 10AM at Greenlawn Cemetery, Orne Street, Salem, MA