Cherie Lorraine Lindholm Carlson passed away quietly and peacefully on Sunday morning 12/27/2020. Cherie always felt so fortunate to have lived on Orcas for most of her 91 years.

Cherie was preceded in death by husband William Carlson, husband Arthur Lindholm, daughters Cynthia (Lindholm) Swanson, Roxanne Lindholm and her twin brother Dever Cunningham.

Cherie was born in Seattle and first came to Orcas in the 1930’s with her Grandparents and her brother Dever while boating from their home near the Ballard locks. In 1941 when Cherie’s grandfathered retired from the Seattle Fire Department the family moved to Grindstone bay. Cherie’s first job on Orcas was at age 13, she worked for a dollar a day room and board at the Orcas Hotel. Other early jobs where working on the Vashon ferry and Norton Inn in Deer Harbor. Cherie attended Orcas Island High School and she remained friends with many of her classmates.

In 1947 Cherie married Art Lindholm. They made their home in square bay. Cherie was busy raising 5 kids, canned from the family garden as well as rowing a small boat out from the beach to catch one or two ling cod for dinner. Cherie learned how to prepare payroll and keep the books for her husband’s contracting business. If that wasn’t enough she found time to do some volunteer work with March of Dimes, sang in the church choir and help produce stage show production with many of the island’s old time residents. She was one of the first to join the Orcas Island Golf Club and played in many tournaments. She also help start the Orcas Island Tennis Club.

In 1964 Cherie went to work for Sam Buck with San Juan Properties. In 1968 Cherie started her own real estate office, Cherie L Lindholm Real Estate and was the first women real estate broker on the island. She built her business on hard work, being fair and honest and loved every minute of it.

In the late 70’s Cherie also served on Orcas Island School Board and in 1976 was proud to present her youngest child with her high school diploma.

In 1995 Cherie married Bill Carlson and they enjoyed many years of adventures together. Bill’s children became a part of her family. They spent summers on Waldron and cruising in the Canadian Gulf Islands as well as fishing, crabbing and gathering oysters. They spent winters in Palm Springs with friends and family.

There are no plans for a service at this time due to Covid-19 restrictions.