WALNUT – Mary Cheryl Von Holten, age 96, died Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Allure of Walnut.

            Mary Cheryl was born on October 29, 1929, in Sterling, the daughter of Elmer and Helen (Williams) Swanson. She married Martin Von Holten on December 11, 1955, in Rock Falls.  He preceded her in death on September 27, 2019. Mary Cheryl grew up in the Prophetstown and Rock Falls area.  She was involved in the family farm in Walnut.  Mary Cheryl was famous for her delicious pies, cinnamon rolls and other baked goods. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, quilting and needlecraft work.  Mary Cheryl was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Ohio.

            Survivors include two sons, Chris (Julia) Von Holten of Walnut and Dale (Nancy) Von Holten of Bloomington; four grandchildren, Molly Von Holten of Austin, TX, Joseph Von Holten stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Kyle (Jennifer) Von Holten of Mt. Prospect and Nicholas Von Holten of Asheville, NC; and two great grandchildren, Martin Von Holten and Kayton Von Holten.

            She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Elwin Swanson.

            Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM Monday, June 1, 2026, at the Walnut Cemetery Walnut, Illinois with Pastors Cheri Stewart and Jeff Whalen co-officiating. Family and friends are welcome. Arrangements were completed by the Garland Funeral Home in Walnut.

            In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to "Allure of Walnut."

Online condolences may be sent to www.garlandfuneralhomes.com