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Cheryl Lustgraaf of Storm Lake, and Crescent, passed away on Nov. 6, 2026.
Cheryl Ann Lustgraaf was born in Council Bluffs on July 22, 1958, to Phillip Sr. and Janis (Nielsen) Lustgraaf. She was raised on an acreage in rural Crescent, the second of four children. Cheryl graduated from Underwood High School in 1977, earned her bachelor’s degree from Dana College in 1981, and went on to receive a master’s degree from Buena Vista University. A lifelong educator, Cheryl taught math at Storm Lake High School from 1981 to 2020.
Cheryl cherished time spent with her family and cared very deeply for her three nephews. Some of their fondest memories together include trips to the movies, visits to Storm Lake, holiday gatherings and more. A dedicated faculty member, Cheryl frequently attended Storm Lake High School sporting events and fine arts performances to support her students. She kept scorebooks for girls’ basketball and volleyball at both Storm Lake High School and Buena Vista University for many years. Cheryl treasured her many lifelong friendships and made lasting memories traveling extensively with friends.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff and residents of Prairie Gate, where Cheryl made her home for the last several years.
Cheryl was preceded in death by her mother Janis Lustgraaf and brother Phillip Dale Lustgraaf, Jr.
She is survived by her father Phillip Sr. of Crescent; brother Mark (Sandy) Lustgraaf of Plymouth; sister Kristene (Jeff) Athey of Crescent; nephews: Phillip III (Amanda) Lustgraaf, Scott (Jamie) Athey and David Athey; great-nieces and great-nephews: Caroline, Phillip IV, Lucas and Audrey Lustgraaf; and Evelyn, Harvey and Walter Athey; numerous cousins, family members and lifelong friends.
Visitation with the family will be held Saturday, Nov. 14 from 12-1 p.m. with a funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. at Cutler-O’Neill-Meyer-Woodring Funeral Home. A luncheon will immediately follow at Denny’s Place in Crescent. A burial will be held on Monday at 10 a.m. at Hazel Dell Cemetery in Crescent.
Memorials may be directed to Buena Vista University in Cheryl’s honor.
