NEW BEDFORD — Cheryl Bendiksen, 56 of Fairhaven, passed peacefully on Wednesday August 13, 2014 at St. Luke's Hospital. Having fought a lengthy illness, Cheryl spent her final days surrounded by her loved ones. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Cheryl was a devoted wife and loving mother. Upon marrying and having children, Cheryl dedicated herself to her family, creating a warm, happy, and loving home. She was a ray of sunshine, always bringing out the better side in those she touched. Her sense of humor was unmatched and nothing brought her more joy than motherhood. Cheryl spent many happy days raising her three girls, participating in all of their activities with great pride. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, decorating her home, and hosting family gatherings. She loved her role as a homemaker, and in the eyes of her family, she was the best there ever was.
Cheryl is survived by her devoted and loving husband Bruce, and her three daughters Ashley, Karyssa, and Michelle, her father, Ernest Vieira and her mother, Patricia Vieira of New Bedford, as well as her siblings Ernest Vieira Jr., Susan Vieira, Sharon Durant, and Eric Vieira; she is also survived by several nieces and nephews and a very large, extended family.
Cheryl's family, and speaking on her behalf, would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the many loving and devoted persons who cared for Cheryl throughout her journey. To the many caregivers, nurses, visitors, and friends, thank you for all that you've done and all that you do.
Visitation will be held at the Wilson Funeral Chapel located at 479 County St, New Bedford, MA 02740 on Friday August 15th from 5:00 — 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph's Church located at 74 Spring St, Fairhaven, MA 02719. Burial will follow at the Riverside Cemetery located at 274 Main St, Fairhaven, MA 02719. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society.