The business and philanthropic communities are mourning the passing of Cheryl Krueger, founder of Cheryl’s Cookies and C. Krueger’s Finest Baked Goods, who passed away peacefully at the age of 74 following a courageous three-year battle with Parkinson’s disease in 2026. Her death marks the loss of one of Ohio’s most influential entrepreneurs and community leaders.
Born in Bellevue and a graduate of Bowling Green University, Cheryl Krueger co-founded the first Cheryl’s Cookies shop in Westerville in 1981 alongside her college roommate. What began as a small bakery built on cherished family recipes grew into the nationally recognized brand Cheryl & Co., ultimately becoming a multi-million-dollar enterprise. In 2005, she sold the company for approximately $40 million, cementing her legacy as a pioneering businesswoman.
Krueger was admired not only for her entrepreneurial achievements but also for her warmth, humility, and dedication to uplifting others. Friends, colleagues, and employees often described her as compassionate, driven, and deeply committed to making a difference. Her influence extended far beyond business, shaping lives through mentorship, charity, and leadership.
Cheryl is lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and the many lives she impacted through her business and philanthropic work. She served on multiple boards, including The Ohio State University, The James Cancer Hospital, Bob Evans, and Heartland Bank. Her awards included the YMCA Woman of Achievement Award and the James Champion Award.
Her family shared that Cheryl believed success was defined not by wealth, but by the lives she touched. She was also deeply devoted to charitable causes, including cancer research, food banks, military support programs, and educational scholarships.
Funeral Arrangements and Celebration of Life
Cheryl Krueger’s funeral arrangements include visitation and services scheduled for June 19 at Schoedinger Funeral and Cremation Service in Gahanna. A celebration of life will honor her extraordinary journey, allowing loved ones to gather and reflect on her lasting impact. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Cheryl Krueger Memorial Fund at The Columbus Foundation.
Though Cheryl Krueger has passed away, her legacy of innovation, generosity, and community service will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.