Cheryl Marlée Maas (née Merrick) passed away peacefully in her home on May 11, 2025. Born to Donald Merrick and Anna Nelson on October 15, 1952, Cheryl was raised by her grandparents Jack and Eva Nelson in Willows, CA. A 1970 graduate of Willows High School, Cheryl married her sweetheart Stephen “Big Steve” Maas of Orland, CA on September 25, 1971. The pair settled on a ranch in Capay, CA where they raised cattle, pigs, chickens, bird dogs, and children. Cheryl fell in love with ranching and took great pride looking after the animals often with a child in tow, while Big Steve worked as a Lineman for PG&E. She loved to sew, crochet, shop with her longtime friend Loretta Lewis (née Pinheiro) and make daily phone calls to family and friends. Her greatest joy was being a mother
and grandmother.
Cheryl is preceded in death by her grandparents Jack and Eva, parents Donald and Anna, and husband Stephen. She is survived by her half brother Brett Merrick (Tom), two daughters Melissa Maas and Stephanie Manezes (Joseph), son Stephen (Alissa), eight grandchildren, and her faithful
dog Libby.
A graveside service will be held at the Willows Cemetery on May 31 at 10:00am followed by a celebration of life at the Willows Elks Lodge. Those wishing to attend the celebration of life can bring a potluck dish
if desired.