2020 saved its worst for last by taking the life of Cheryl on December 28 at the age of 58 after a very rapid battle with cancer. She is survived by her parents, Sylvia and James Young of Phoenixville, PA, her sister Linda Kramer, her loving husband Douglas Berne, her daughters Candace Kronen and Lianne Berne, and her granddaughter Sage Kronen (age 2).
Cheryl was raised in Phoenixville. After graduating Villa Maria Academy in 1980, she attended LaSalle College (now University) where she met her future husband Douglas and shared many formative experiences. After graduating college, she attended medical school and residency in pathology at Penn State Hershey where her daughters were born. After serving as chief resident, she moved to Wyomissing, PA where she lived ever since, working for Biological Specialties Corporation (now BioIVT) as medical director.
She was a prolific reader, who routinely read over 200 books annually in every genre. She was a dedicated mother, spending hours as a "horse-show mom" to the barn’s show team, a "marching band mom", a Girl Scout leader and Service Unit Manager, and a surrogate mother to many of our daughters' friends. She always had snacks, water, and most importantly, sunscreen for everyone. Cheryl was instrumental in organizing her daughters’ weddings in 2015 and 2018. The birth of her granddaughter Sage was a highlight of her life, as she had someone new with whom to share her love of reading and nature. Prior to the pandemic, she enjoyed travelling to see family and made a point to regularly visit her late grandmother as well as her parents and sister in Phoenixville.
Cheryl spent her last few weeks surrounded by her husband, daughters and granddaughter each day, while still working remotely. Her passing took place at home, surrounded by family members and dogs, as peacefully as one could hope.
Her boundless energy and quick laugh brightened the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be sorely missed.