Gudrun Marianne

Cheshier

Gudrun "Gundi" Marianne Cheshier, 86, passed away on October 1, 2026. She was born on March 10, 1940, in Silberberg, Germany, to Artur and Lenchen Schicht. Gundi grew up in a small village outside Bremen before her family moved to the city. She completed her education at a business college in Bremen and worked as a stenographer for an insurance company.

In 1962, at the age of 22, Gundi moved to San Francisco to work as an au pair for a couple with two young children. After a year and a half, she decided to remain in America rather than return to Bremen. She worked at Crocker Bank for 11 years and later for a German steel company, both in San Francisco. While living there, she met Finley Paul Cheshier in 1975. They married on Christmas Eve in 1976, beginning a life together filled with love, adventure, and beloved animals. Gundi delighted in becoming a full-time homemaker.

Gundi and Finley later made their home in Florida, where they had a ranchette with horses, cows, chickens, peacocks, and many dogs and cats. Gundi had a lifelong love for animals, and although she and Finley never had children of their own, their cherished "fur babies" filled their home and hearts. In 1990, they returned to California and spent the next 14 years in Livermore.

In 2004, Gundi and Finley moved to Brookings, Oregon, to enjoy retirement. There, she spent her days gardening, caring for her animals, and pursuing her love of painting. An accomplished painter, Gundi drew inspiration from the beauty of the coast, creating landscapes and seascapes that reflected her appreciation for the world around her. She was also a talented gourmet cook who loved to entertain, delighting Finley and their many friends with wonderful dishes.

More than 60 years after caring for the children in San Francisco, Gundi reconnected with the little girl she had once looked after, now grown, who became her treasured "fairy goddaughter." Their renewed connection grew into a relationship Gundi cherished dearly.

Gundi and Finley belonged to the Presbyterian Church in Brookings, where they found great comfort, support, blessings, and inspiration through the wonderful pastors and members of the congregation.

Gundi touched many lives through her friendliness, kindness, creativity, and love for people and animals alike. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.