In Memoriam

Cheryl Markey 1944-2025

Membership Coordinator 

25 Year Co-op Employee

Our dear friend and co-worker, Cheryl Markey has passed. She had a long and difficult fight with cancer, which she won, however her tired body could never quite recover. She came into our Co-op community as a cashier, eventually moving up to Cashier Coordinator where she ran a tight ship. She then moved to the Mercantile as an assistant buyer. With her love of shopping, wonderfully quirky fashion sense, and her appreciation for all things beautiful, she loved it! Later, she moved to the 3rd floor offices and worked as our membership coordinator. 

Cheryl was a kind and caring soul who lived a good life full of love and surrounded by family and many friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

In honor of Cheryl, we’re re-printing her Staff Profile from 2022 to share in some of the things she loved most.

Favorite customer moment: 

I could never choose one favorite interaction. While Cashier Coordinator I loved face-to-face interaction, learning from all types of customers. In helping expand the Mercantile Department, it was quite similar meeting all types and ages of folks and also hearing about their likes and experiences. Now in Membership, I really enjoy helping our members with all types of needs that change daily!

Favorite item in the Co-op:

I would have to say our fabulous variety of chicken wings! Why? Because they are fantastic and something to look forward to!

Favorite meal to make with Co-op ingredients:

That would have to be soup! I love experimenting with different herbs, spices, broths, veggies, and meats, coming up with a warm cozy meal in a bowl!

Favorite way to spend time outside of work:

I love spending time with my family even though it has been limited over the past couple of years which makes it hard because they are my best friends. We are looking forward to getting together outside this summer! I like to cook, read, and be at home enjoying beautiful Padilla Bay, its birds and wildlife.