Beloved Artist Cheryl Jean Husby Passes Away at 76, Funeral Set

UPDATE: Renowned artist and community advocate Cheryl Jean Husby has passed away at the age of 76. She died peacefully surrounded by family on October 14, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota. This loss is felt deeply within the community she so passionately served and enriched.

Cheryl was born on December 30, 1948, in Minneapolis to parents Dorothy and George Chergosky. A proud graduate of U-High in 1966, her life was a tapestry woven with creativity and community spirit. She was celebrated for her artistry, earning accolades such as 1st place in clay at the Coconut Grove Art Festival.

Her artistic journey began with a B.F.A. in 1983, followed by an M.A. in 1984 from the University of Wisconsin Superior, and culminated in an M.F.A. in 1986 from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Throughout her life, Cheryl was known for her vibrant personality and love for hosting gatherings, including her beloved weekly Music Mondays and themed parties.

Cheryl’s legacy extends beyond her art. She was deeply involved in community service, serving on boards for the Duluth Art Institute and the Duluth Preservation Alliance. Her commitment to the community was matched only by her love for her family, including her husband Bob Husby, son Seth Draper, daughter Elissa Husby, and grandsons Zane and Noah Draper.

The family expresses profound gratitude to the teams at St. Luke’s, Mayo Clinic, and Benedictine for their compassionate care. They invite friends and community members to celebrate Cheryl’s life during a visitation on November 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM at First Lutheran Church, located at 1100 E. Superior Street. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, with a reception to honor her memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Depot Foundation and Duluth Preservation Alliance in Cheryl’s name. They encourage those who knew her to share condolences and memories at SunriseFuneralHomeandCemetery.com.

Cheryl Jean Husby’s warmth, creativity, and community spirit will be sorely missed. Her impact on the Duluth area and the lives of those she touched will be remembered fondly.