Cherie Shopin's Obituary
With grace, grit, and a sparkle in her eye, Darlene Cherie Shopin—known to all as Cherie—danced her way through life and into the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know her. Born in Tacoma, Washington, and passing in Lakewood, Washington, Cherie’s 80 years were filled with love, laughter, and a flair all her own.
Cherie met the love of her life, Michael Shopin, at the tender age of 12 at a roller skating rink. He was 14, and together they became a dazzling pair—both on the rink as competitive roller skaters and later on the dance floor as square dancing partners. Their love story, which began with wheels and rhythm, endured decades. Even after Michael joined the military, he returned to find his sweetheart waiting. They were soon engaged, beginning a lifelong journey of devotion and adventure.
Cherie was a woman of many passions. She had a green thumb and a love for getting her hands dirty in the garden, where she found peace among the flowers and soil. She was endlessly creative, always crafting something beautiful with her hands and heart. Her signature phrase, “Oh Lord, love a duck!” was a charming reflection of her spirited personality—quirky, warm, and unforgettable.
She was a stunning beauty, always impeccably dressed and carrying herself with elegance and pride. But beneath the polished exterior was a woman of deep love and fierce loyalty. Cherie was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who poured her heart into her family. Her dogs were cherished companions, each one holding a special place in her heart.
Some of her happiest memories were made under the towering trees of Bumping River and beside the still waters of Granite Lake, where she and her family camped each year in the shadow of Mount Rainier. These trips were filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of joy that only comes from being surrounded by those you love most.
Cherie leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and style. She was a woman who lived fully, loved deeply, and never missed a chance to shine. Her memory will forever be cherished by her beloved husband Michael, the love for her children Troy and JaDea, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.
In her honor, we say: “Oh Lord, love a duck!”—and thank you, Cherie, for the beauty, joy, and grace you brought into this world.
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