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Cheri Lee Ohlhauser, born in 1961 in Ontario, Oregon, to Joe and Jeanette Lee, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, in Meridian, Idaho, after a courageous five-year battle with breast cancer. She was 64 years old.
Cheri grew up in Ontario, where she attended Ontario High School. She was a devoted wife to her loving husband, Dennis Ohlhauser, with whom she shared a deep and enduring partnership. Together, they raised their beloved daughter, Alexandria, who was the light of her life. Cheri was an incredible spouse and partner, known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support.
She cherished life’s simple joys — especially visits to the Oregon coast, where she found peace in the sound of the waves, the salty air, and the beauty of the rugged shoreline. Time spent with family was her greatest treasure. She delighted in creating memories, sharing laughter, offering quiet encouragement to those she loved, and expressing her love through cooking. Cheri loved to cook and was truly an amazing cook, bringing family and friends together around meals made with care.
One of Cheri’s greatest joys was becoming a grandmother, lovingly known as “Yaya.” She adored her grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them, whether coloring at the table, going to the park, or playing together and sharing giggles. Being Yaya was a role she embraced with her whole heart, and the love she had for her grandchildren was endless.
Her strength and grace during her illness inspired everyone around her. Cheri faced her challenges with quiet resilience, always prioritizing the comfort and happiness of her family.
She is survived by her mother, Jeanette (Charles) Drouillard; her devoted husband, Dennis Ohlhauser; her cherished daughter, Alexandria (Morgan) Ciavarella; her beloved grandchildren, Korra Ciavarella and McCoy Ciavarella, who knew her as their loving Yaya; along with extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Cheri will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for the love she gave so freely and the beautiful life she lived. May she rest in peace, with the ocean’s gentle rhythm echoing her serene spirit.
A Celebration of Life honoring Cheri’s beautiful life will be held on February 28, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The Z, 6202 W State St, Boise, ID 83703. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate the love, kindness, and joy Cheri brought into the lives of all who knew her.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cheri Lee Ohlhauser, please visit our floral store.