Cheri Lynn Nelson Calsetta

Our beautiful mother and loyal wife of 40 years, Cheri Lynn Nelson Calsetta, passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side on March 15, 2022. Cheri was born in Missoula, MT on July 14, 1960. At just a few days old, she met her parents James “Jim” and Jean (Xenovia) Kostura Nelson. The happy family lived in Great Falls, Montana. Cheri lost her father at a young age, but she and her mother had their Ukrainian Family in Canada for continued support. She had a very fond love for the family farm in Alberta and the traditions that were deeply rooted there. Cheri loved traditional Ukrainian food, tapestry, and culture, but mostly she loved the land and the people. At a young age, Cheri took part in Masonic Job’s Daughters, learning how to be a confident woman. During her time with Job’s Daughters, she held various titles, enjoying the camaraderie of young women her age. Cheri attended college in North Dakota, earning a degree in science and horticulture. Her independent time away, schooling, and earning her degree were all life events that she was very proud of. She loved her work in the medical field, having the sweetest disposition and caring nature. She was cherished by all of her patients. From respiratory therapy to medical transcription, she cared most about helping people and it showed in the work that she did. At 22 years old, Cheri gave birth to her first daughter, Amy; less than two years later, she had Alyssa. Amy and Alyssa were involved in many activities as kids that she loved to participate in. One of her favorites was her title as “room mom” at the girls’ elementary school. She always went above and beyond to make their class parties and events a huge hit. She volunteered at the school whenever she was able. Cheri’s daughters will fondly remember cooking and baking with her at home and learning tips and tricks in the kitchen. Cheri’s pride and joy were her four beautiful grandchildren, whom she loved fiercely and deeply. She was always sending “a little gift” or having them over for grandma time. Their school and athletic events, hobbies, individual personalities, and unending love, hugs, and kisses brought her so much joy. Cheri took the phrase, “what happens at grandma’s, stays at grandma’s” very seriously, sneaking them treats and making whatever food they asked for. She was always cracking jokes, singing weird songs, and acting silly with them. Her favorite time with her daughters and grandkids was always the holidays, especially Easter. Cheri would always put on a big spread, plan fun activities, create gift bags, and shower everyone with love. Second only to her daughters and grandkids, was her love for God and the nature he created. Cheri was an avid gardener, horticulturist, and bird watcher. She grew the healthiest, most beautiful African violets with ease and her rose garden was her pride and joy. Cheri especially loved crafting and card making which was something she enjoyed sharing with her granddaughters and many friends, young and old. She loved to bake, often submitting many of her baked creations and canned goods to the MT State Fair competitions; earning many ribbons and bragging rights for her delicious treats made with love. Right alongside her strong spirit was her ability to form the longest lasting and most pure friendships with the people who loved her. Cheri connected with people everywhere she went, blessing others with her kindness and natural joy, despite any health ailments or pain. She loved doing for others and always put others above herself. Cheri had the biggest heart, sweetest smile, and most wonderful nature. She was kind, caring, loving, thoughtful, supportive, tenacious, and precious to those that knew her. She was a fighter and never knew or uttered the words “I can’t.” Cheri would never want to be remembered for her health issues and ailments. Our dearest mom would want to be remembered for all of the wonderful adventures she had in her life and for the outstanding human being that she was to the many people that knew and loved her. She will be missed by so many people, especially her daughters, Amy (Mark) O’Connell and Alyssa (Howard) Cliver; and her grandchildren, Ethan, Elly, Adalyn, and Cora. Cheri was preceded in death by her mother, Jean; her father, James; Baba and Gido; aunt; and her uncles. Though our hearts are broken, and we will miss her terribly, we are at peace knowing that she is free from pain. She has parked her scooter here on Earth and is running with the angels in Heaven. Cheri’s happiest moments in life were when she was surrounded by friends and family. Please join us for a special memorial service and reception at Faith Lutheran Church (1300 Ferguson Drive - Great Falls, MT) on March 20, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.