Cherri L. Campito

BALLSTON LAKE - Cherri Lynne Campito, age 60 of Ballston Lake, NY passed away peacefully on October 13, 2023, after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born May 30, 1963 in Schenectady, NY. The daughter of Patricia E. Harr of Albany and George R. Barker of Ballston Lake.

Cherri is survived by both her parents, her children; Nichole (Jonathan) Reilly, Cortney Blake (Miranda Olsen) who both lovingly cared for her, Zackery Blake, and Mikaeli Blake (Melek Shaie). Her loving Sister, Jackilynne Barker. Her Aunt Red. Granddaughter, Aubri Nikkole. Nieces: Jaime Lynne and Skyelynne. Nephews: Justin, Kameren, Phoenix. She also leaves behind her beloved pets, Malachi (her most loyal companion), Zeke, Oliver and Chunk.

Cherri graduated from Clayton A. Bouton High School in 1981. She went on to study Horticulture at Alfred State. In 2009, she retired from NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.

Cherri was a loving and devoted mother to her four children. She could always be counted on and showed up no matter what. Besides spending time with her children and her animals she had many interests of which she was passionate: shopping, gardening, baking (apple crisp, zucchini bread and magic cookies to mention a few family favorites), supporting local animal shelters and traveling. She was naturally creative and loved a good project.

In the 1980’s, she opened Salute Kennels being the first to introduce the Shar-Pei dog breed to the area.

Cherri lived a life full of many challenges with her health: juvenile diabetes, surviving a traumatic brain injury, and as of recent a warrior who fought a rare and aggressive cancer diagnosis. Her resilience allowed her to overcome so many obstacles that life put in her path.

She was a member of Northway Christian Church of Clifton Park and her faith was strong and unwavering just like her fierce spirit.

Despite her terminal diagnosis she was determined to spend her final months seeing beautiful things and places. In her final weeks, she was especially happy and grateful to take the trip of a lifetime, traveling to Costa Rica with all of her children. She was able to enjoy birdwatching, up-close encounters with sloths and other rainforest wildlife. As well as releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean.

Cherri gave in death as she gave in life by a selfless act of participation in the Last Wish Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering, in hopes that her gift of self would go on to help others.

There will be no services held. A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her honor to: The SPCA of Upstate New York.

http://www.spcauny.org/donations-1.html