Cheryl Elaine Carlson, 75, of Belvidere, IL, passed away May 3, 2024. She was born in Belvidere, IL, on September 30, 1948. The daughter of Thelma (Hove) and Marvin Hoelzel. Cheryl had a joyful and fun loving attitude and lived life fully. She could always make you laugh with her sense of humor and quick wit. Cheryl was deeply dedicated to her family and friends and always there to help.

On July 11, 1988 she married the love of her life, Douglas Carlson. They shared 35 years of marriage. Cheryl graduated from Belvidere High School and went on to continue her education in beauty school. She worked for 33 years as a hairdresser. She then worked for 10 years at General Mills, retiring in 2011.

Cheryl was a member of the VFW post 1461. She was a talented crochet artist and loved to play bingo. She crocheted and donated countless lapghans to veterans locally and nationally. Cheryl had a green thumb and loved tending to her flowers and garden.

Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege to know her.

She is survived by her husband, Doug Carlson; brother, Dennis (Penny) Hoelzel; nephew, Blake (Kirstin) Hoelzel; great-nephews, Maddox and Peyton, she is also survived by numerous cousins and extended family members whom she loved dearly.

Predeceased by her parents, Marvin and Thelma Hoelzel, and step-mother, Lorraine Hoelzel.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Celebration of life to be held on Saturday, June 29th between the hours of 12pm and 3pm at the Belvidere VFW post 1461, located at  1310 W Lincoln Ave, Belvidere, IL 61008.