Cheryl Ann Underwood (née Prater)

Cheryl Ann Underwood, aged 70, was born in Stockton, California, and later made her home in Colorado, where she built a life filled with family, friendships and the things she loved most.

Cheryl spent much of her childhood alongside her beloved grandparents, Mabel and Nolan Powers, who lived next door. Her grandmother, Mabel, taught her many of the skills that would become lifelong passions, including sewing, gardening and baking. These early years created special memories and helped shape Cheryl's love of making things, growing things and sharing them with others.

In the late 1970s, Cheryl and her husband, Ronnie, made the move from California to Colorado. After visiting close family friends who had also relocated from California, they were drawn to the idea of making Colorado their home. The beautiful outdoors and opportunities for fishing and hunting made the decision even easier. Colorado soon became home, and it was here that Cheryl made countless friendships and became a familiar face in the community.

Cheryl was never one to sit still. She loved tending her garden, working on craft projects and spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking. With her bubbly personality, quick sense of humour and love of joking around with friends, Cheryl was happiest when surrounded by people. She loved a good laugh, a good conversation and could strike one up with just about anyone.

After many years as a homemaker, Cheryl decided to return to work, spending years at several of Hotchkiss' popular restaurants and cafés. She was a natural when it came to customer service. Never shy and always ready for a chat or a laugh, Cheryl had a way of making people feel welcome. For her, it was about more than serving customers. It was about the people, the connections and the friendships made along the way.

Above all, Cheryl had a generous heart. Helping others and giving what she could came naturally to her. Whether it was something she had grown, cooked, made or simply a little of her time, she found joy in sharing with those around her.

Cheryl is survived by her loving husband, Ronnie Underwood; daughter Ronda Kelling and son-in-law Andre Kelling; granddaughter Amelise Kelling.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Jay Prater; her brother, Armin Prater; and her sister, Cynthia Prater. She also held a special place in her heart for her grandparents, Mabel and Nolan Powers.

Cheryl will be remembered for her infectious personality, her sense of humour, her creativity and her generosity. Most of all, she will be remembered for the laughter she shared, the friendships she cherished and the many lives she touched along the way.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, 5 November 2026, at Taylor Funeral Home in Hotchkiss, Colorado.

Family and friends are warmly invited to join us in celebrating Cheryl's life. Please come with your favourite memory or story of Cheryl to share. We would love to remember her together, with the laughter, warmth and friendship she so enjoyed.