Cheryl Rae (Brasel) Friessen, 78, of Sioux Falls, passed away surrounded by family on February 14, 2026.

Visitation, with the family present, will begin at 9:30 am with a funeral service at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Miller Funeral Home (Southside Location) 7400 S. Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD. Cheryl's final place of rest will be at St. Michael Cemetery, 3001 N. Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls, SD.

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Cheryl—known affectionately as "Ma" or "Sis"—was born on August 15, 1947, to Elmer and Goldyne Brasel. One of five children, Sioux Falls was always home to her and the place where she built a full and meaningful life.

On October 10, 1964, Cheryl married the love of her life, Cletus Friessen. They shared 61 years of marriage that was shaped by devotion, teamwork, and a shared sense of humor. Together, they faced life side by side—working hard, supporting one another, and finding joy in everyday moments. Family was at the center of their lives and together they had three children: Randy, Michelle, and Terry.

Together they built a life rich with memories and the things they loved most—traveling, fishing, camping, playing cards, competitive bowling, and yes, she even enjoyed hunting. For 16 years, they spent their winters in Texas, a tradition they looked forward to each year.

Over the years, Cheryl wore many hats. She worked as a surgical nurse at McKennan Hospital, honed her skills in electronics and soldering at Sencore and Raven Industries, and later, alongside her husband, helped out and operated a laundromat and Clete's Empire Painting.

She was known for her warm smile and quick sense of humor. Her kitchen was always open, and no one ever left hungry. Holidays were especially meaningful to her, and she looked forward to having family together to celebrate. She never missed sending a card. Bingo was another favorite pastime, and if she ever missed a weekend game, she made sure you knew. She loved bringing family and friends along, though many suspected it was simply another chance to show off her uncanny ability to manage a table full of cards while spotting your bingo before you did.

Cheryl and Clete cherished time with friends, whether over dinner or a game of cards. She was endlessly proud of her children and grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to share the latest photos of her great-grandchildren. She was always good at sneaking treats when no one was looking.

Cheryl had a way of making people feel welcome and cared for, whether through a warm meal, a conversation, or a shared laugh. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and loved her.

Cheryl is lovingly remembered by her husband of 61 years, Clete; her children, Randy Friessen and Michelle Rasmussen; her granddaughter, Cassie Emerson, and her husband, Jon; her great-grandchildren, Casper and Luna; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Those who went before her include  her son, Terry Friessen; her parents, Elmer and Goldyne Brasel; her siblings, Terry Brasel, Karon Thomas, Larry Brasel, Dawn Schildhauer; her in-laws, Leo and Sophie Friessen; and many family and friends who are now welcoming her home.