ST. JOSEPH, Ill.–Cheryl Merkel, CEO of Central Illinois Credit Union, has died.
Ms. Merkel had led the $18-million credit union since 1997, and prior to that was president of Super-Value Credit Union from 1991-1997. A native of Chelsea, Mass., Merkel moved to Champaign, Ill. while in high school and graduated from Northern University.
According to the Gazette, Merkel was active in volleyball throughout her life, was an author, and was a “bonus mom” to three children. She also volunteered at church and with breast cancer organizations, including Prairie Dragon Paddlers and Little Pink Houses of Hope.
“To remember Cheryl is to think of her when you listen to that small voice inside of you that tells you to do a random act of kindness or when you find joy in the small things that often go under-appreciated,” read her obituary in the Gazette. “Cheryl’s heart lit up each room she walked into. She was intentional, inspirational, hardworking, selfless and loved her family and friends both fiercely and firmly. She has left them all with memories and an example to live by.”
A celebration of life is planned for March 17 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in St. Joseph.
“In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, Cheryl’s request is that you spend that money and time with people you love and enjoy, and be ridiculously present with them,” the obituary read.