Obituary for Cheryl Jean Riherd

Our mother, Cheryl Jean Riherd (née Swanson, formerly Bonjour), age 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 11, 2026, following a motorcycle accident. Surrounded by the love of her family in her final moments, Cheryl left behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.

Cheryl was born on April 12, 1951, in Forest City, Iowa, to Larry and Vi Swanson. As the oldest of six children, she learned early in life the importance of family, responsibility, and caring for others. She spent much of her childhood helping raise her younger siblings, a role that helped shape the loving and devoted woman she would become. When she wasn't busy helping with her brothers and sisters, Cheryl enjoyed the simple pleasures of childhood, especially reading books and playing with paper dolls.

During her high school years, Cheryl met Kenneth Dean "Kenny" Bonjour, and the two were married on July 20, 1968. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Shannon Pascual (Jaime) and Steph Bonjour.

Cheryl embraced a life of adventure alongside Kenny, often accompanying him in his truck as they traveled the United States. Together, they experienced the beauty of the country while raising their daughters and making memories along the way. Throughout those years, Cheryl worked various jobs, including operating her own painting and wallpapering business. She always found ways to contribute to her family while embracing the experiences that came with life on the road.

Cheryl had a creative spirit and enjoyed sewing, making crafts, and creating things with her hands. She especially loved sharing her handmade creations with others, bringing joy to those around her through her talents and thoughtfulness.

On October 28, 1986, Cheryl experienced the heartbreaking loss of Kenny after 18 years of marriage. Their years together were filled with love, family, travels, and memories that would forever remain an important part of her life story.

Through life's joys and challenges, Cheryl continued writing her own story. On August 19, 1989, she married Timothy "Tim" Riherd and embraced the role of stepmother to his children. Together, Tim and Cheryl built a life centered around family, hard work, and the comforts of home.

The Riherd’s lived in Sheffield, Iowa, until 1992, when they purchased the Riherd family farm in Forest City, Iowa. The farm became their home and a place where Cheryl could enjoy the quieter pleasures of life. She loved raising chickens and caring for the many dogs and cats that became part of their family.

Both Tim and Cheryl worked at Winnebago Industries for many years. Following her medical retirement, Cheryl continued to pursue the activities that brought her happiness. She enjoyed baking, canning, sewing, crafting, and exploring new creative interests, including learning to draw and paint animals. One of Cheryl's favorite pastimes was sitting on the deck, watching and enjoying her beloved birds.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Vi Swanson; her first husband, Kenneth Dean "Kenny" Bonjour; and her stepsons, Robbie and J.T. Riherd.

She is survived by her husband, Timothy Riherd; her daughters, Shannon Pascual (Jaime) and Steph Bonjour; and her stepchildren, Gina Randall (Clint), Kate Rogers, Carla Hellen (Nick), and Josh Fritts.

She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Savana Kothenbeutel (Jeb), Sierra Myer (Zach), Michael Pascual (Angeli), Jaime Pascual II (Lily Ho), Tristen Pascual, Ryan Faulkner, Sam Keller (Justin), Zachary Dietz (Star Marsh), Mackenzie Dietz, Stephen Dietz, Abigail Dietz, Caitlyn Randall, Ella Randall, Jordyn Randall, Neela Jo Randall, Bailey Liewellyn, Noah Hellen, Oliver Hellen, Naomi Rogers, Shiloh Rogers, Galilee Rogers, Genesis Rogers, Savana Fritts, and Joshua Fritts Jr.

Her great-grandchildren include Adalyn and Barrett Kothenbeutel, Nicholas and Olivia Myer, Eliza Pascual, Rafa Pascual, Theo, Zella and Zophia Dietz, and Finley William Fritts.

Cheryl is also survived by her five siblings: Vickie Ronnenberg, Norlene Kramer (Mike), Jon Swanson (Barb), Dave Swanson (Karen), and Gail Sheriff (Dale).

Cheryl's life was one of love, resilience, adventure, and devotion to those she held dear. From traveling the open roads of America to finding peace and happiness on the family farm, she created a lifetime of memories that her family will hold close to their hearts.

A celebration of Cheryl's life will be held at a later date, allowing time for her husband, Tim, to recover. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements have been finalized.