Cheri Lee White (Pulkinen)
March 21, 1947 - October 26, 2019

Cheri was born and lived her life in Eureka, and passed away at St. Joseph Hospital on the night the lights went out. Her family was holding her hands until she slipped away. She leaves behind her beloved husband Bill, daughters Chelsea and Adrienne White, grandchildren Marco Martínez, Jada Alcutt and Hondo Carter.

Cheri’s mother left when Cheri was very young and she was raised by her father, Arnold Pulkinen. He was one of the local train engineers. She was also raised by her grandmother Selma, who immigrated here from Finland, and was one of the cooks at the ghost town of Falk. Her dear aunt and uncle (Agnes and Al Perry) were a big part of her life until they passed. One day we will place Cheri’s ashes in the vault with her family. She would like that.

Cheri met Bill White at the Keg in Arcata soon after he returned from Vietnam. They were in love for five years before they were married. Cheri went to heaven three days before their 47th wedding anniversary. She was in the antique sales business for forty years, and had a number of shops and was a familiar face at yard sales and flea markets. She also leaves behind her pal, Jupiter.

There is no greater love in this world than a mother’s love for her children. This is so true with my mother. So many treasures my mom discovered in this world but her most precious treasures have always been her family and friends. She was the most amazing person. Many people say when they lose a loved one that they are survived by their friends and family. But it was the exact opposite in my mom’s case we all survived because of her. I counted on her and I didn’t realize how much she counted on us. Mom, I know you are watching over us every day and we love you and know that one day we will be reunited in the ever after.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Eureka Woman’s Club, 1531 J Street, Eureka, on Sunday, March 22, 2-6 p.m. [UPDATE: The Celebration of Life service has been canceled due to coronavirus concerns.] Please bring stories and pictures of Cheri to share with family and friends. If you would like to bring finger foods or potluck it would be appreciated. Cheri hoped it would be a party to send her off with a good time for all. She did love to put on the biggest and best parties.

We are so thankful to have so much concern, support and sympathy from so many.

May God Bless Cheri.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Cheri White’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.