It is with profound sadness that I must announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Connelly (nee Debs). She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and loved by so many. Her sudden passing has brought many of her family and friends into a great state of disbelief. Cheryl is survived by her husband John, sons MikeyContinue Reading
It is with profound sadness that I must announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Connelly (nee Debs). She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and loved by so many. Her sudden passing has brought many of her family and friends into a great state of disbelief.
Cheryl is survived by her husband John, sons Mikey and Ryan, her parents Mort and Joy Debs, brothers Bob (Lori) Debs and Louis Debs, Aunts Barb Marino and Chris Barbich, as well as her nieces, Amanda Certa and Sarah (Nicklas) Debs, and nephew David Debs. In-laws, Michael (Corinne) Connelly, Roberta (David) Harnish and Mary Gatipon, and nieces Alexis (Justin) Hanuscin, Sarah (Josh) Deakin, Maggie Connelly, and Michelle Gatipon. Also, numerous cousins, extended family and loving friends. Preceded in death by Aunts Violet (Rich) Furjanic and Ann (Harold) Hufford, Uncle Al Debs, as well as Grandparents Joe (Sophie) Barbich and Louis (Helen) Debs.
Cheryl was exceptionally caring, compassionate, and dedicated to assisting special needs kids. She never wavered in advocacy for her son Mikey and all of the kids she worked with in her life. She was immensely proud of her son Ryan, who assisted her at so many turns, and who, under her direction, became an example of sibling advocacy for those challenged by physical and mental difficulties. Cheryl was a loving wife to John, who she educated on the importance of inclusion, acceptance and involvement towards all kids. All the while, cooking, cleaning, and “soccer mom-ing” her way through life. Cheryl enjoyed family endeavors and family dinners. She was an avid baker, gardener, and an ardent Cubs fan. Many have reached out to describe her as loving, devoted, dependable and 100% supportive of others. There is a hole in many hearts now that hopefully will be filled soon with loving memories.
Family and friends are invited to visit with the family at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Avenue, Munster, Indiana, on Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 4:00-8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026 at St. Maria Goretti Church, 500 Northgate Drive, Dyer, Indiana at 10:00 am, with a short visitation period from 9:00-10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Autism Speaks and/or Gabriel’s Light Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family. Cheryl impacted so many lives and will be greatly missed by many.
To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Cheryl Ann Connelly, please visit our Tribute Store.
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Terri Gintzler
left a message on June 21, 2026:
Terri Traczyk Thomas
left a message on June 25, 2026:
Michelle Kowal
left a message on June 16, 2026:
Laura Koruna
left a message on June 16, 2026:
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