Trending
Cheryl (Jonas) Payne died on September 11th at the age of 69. She was the daughter of Frederic "Fritzy" and Elaine Jonas. Having grown up with relatives in the Keweenaw, she spent many summer vacations in Laurium and Calumet and moved here briefly after graduating from high school. She loved the area for its natural beauty, its wildlife, and its many outdoor sports.
Events then brought her to Los Angeles area where she lived for so many years and raised her beloved stepson, Evan Payne. But the attraction of the Keweenaw eventually brought her back to Gay for the remainder of her life.
Cheryl was blessed with friends and family who loved her indomitable spirit, her wicked sense of humor, and her boundless generosity. She had a passion for cooking, dogs, music, and movies and was never shy to tell you what was on her mind. Her strong will and determination defined her. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents and by her sisters Donna and Karen. She is survived by Evan Payne, her grandchildren Jade and Auriana, and a circle of friends and family who will miss her dearly. Special recognition goes to Mary Tinnion for being a lifelong and loyal confidante and to Bob Sanderson and Linda Griffin who regularly checked on Cheryl's welfare until her death. A private family service will be held at a later date.