07/21/2026
Cheryl McGovern
With deeply saddened hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Cheryl Rice McGovern, age 62, who left us gently in her sleep at her home on July 12th, 2026. Cheryl was a radiant soul who possessed the rare and beautiful gift of lifting any spirit just by walking into a room. Helping others was not just her passion; it was her true purpose in life, making her an absolute joy to be around.
Born in Denver in 1964 to her loving parents, Margaret and William Rice, Cheryl spent her lifetime nurturing the people and world around her. She channeled her deeply caring nature into her career as a Medical Assistant for Panorama Orthopedics, where she served faithfully for 16 years. Cheryl strived to make every single patient's experience as comforting and wonderful as possible. Her genuine kindness touched countless lives and blessed her with lifelong friendships among her cherished coworkers.
Cheryl’s heart was happiest when she was surrounded by loved ones, but her ultimate sanctuary was the great outdoors. She found immense peace and joy camping and fishing in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, taking in everything the majestic wilderness had to offer. At home, she poured that same immense love into her family, her friends, and her treasured miniature Chihuahua mix, Chase, who was truly her four-legged baby.
Cheryl’s legacy of love lives on through her only son, Joseph K. Lace, and her brother, Douglas Rice. Her memory will be held dear by the many wonderful friends she gathered over a lifetime, including her childhood friend, Fluffy Olmstead, her long-time friend, Gaynor Wister Miller, and her former coworker, HR Fogarty among many others.
While it brings profound sorrow that Cheryl was taken from us so soon, we find comfort in her final, tender wishes. She gently asked those she loved to hold back their tears, reminding us that she was simply going home. We find peace in knowing she will be waiting for us when it is our time to meet again.
We love you so much, Mom. Until we meet again.
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