Barbara E. Cherney

Barbara Ellen Cherney (nee Janis) passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, at the age of 83. Barbara was born on March 11, 1942, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Alex and Cecelia Janis. Beloved wife of John Francis Cherney for 56 years. Loving mother of Kevin Cherney (Katie) and Michelle O’Brien (Mark). Cherished Mimi of Ella O’Brien, Livia O’Brien, Meadow Cherney, Sela O’Brien, Xander Cherney, and Isla O’Brien. Preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Orville, her niece, Pamela, and other relatives. She is further survived by her sister-in-law, Gladys Metzler (Marty), nine nieces and nephews, five step-grandchildren, and many friends.

Barbara attended Alverno College and graduated in 1964. After graduation, she began her lifelong career as an elementary school music teacher. Having grown up singing and playing both the violin and piano, Barbara wanted to share her passion for music with the world. Music spoke to her in a special way, and she had a gift for sharing that love with everyone around her.

While Barbara’s love for music was strong, her love for sports began when she started attending  Milwaukee Braves games with her dad. She was heartbroken when the team moved to Atlanta, but loved cheering for the Packers and Marquette basketball, and was elated when the Brewers came to town. Fittingly, she met John at a Packers game she attended with a young adult catholic group.

Their love story took off from there, and they were married on June 21, 1969. A few years later, they started their family, first welcoming their son, Kevin, and then their daughter, Michelle. Eight months after Michelle was born, Barbara and John moved to their home in Greendale, where they still reside. Barbara made sure her home was always filled with music, laughter, comfort, and most importantly, love. “Mimi and Papa’s” is always everyone’s favorite place to be.

Barbara’s greatest joy was her family. She and John built a loving home where happiness and warmth were constants, neighbors felt like family, and every visitor felt welcome. She was not only a wife, mother, and grandmother, but also a trusted confidant and dearest friend; and is undoubtedly known as the most selfless woman by each and every member of her family. She poured herself into raising her children, ensuring they received not only a strong education but also a foundation rooted in love and faith. Later in life, Barbara embraced her most cherished role as “Mimi”. She never missed a moment to encourage, celebrate, or comfort her grandchildren, and she filled their lives with unconditional love. No matter the occasion, time, or place, she was always a shoulder to cry on, a call away, a voice of celebration, or a voice of reason. She approached every moment with wisdom, grace, and intentionality.

Barbara’s catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of her parish, she sang and played piano for the masses she attended faithfully, and instilled in her children and grandchildren the values of devotion, compassion, and service. Her faith guided her daily actions—whether through quiet prayers, selfless service, or simple acts of kindness. Those who knew Barbara were deeply touched by her profound faith in God and the way she lived her life with humility, joy, and unwavering love. Her example of steadfast faith and gentle devotion touched all who knew her and will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Visitation will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church (6060 W. Loomis Rd., Greendale) on Tuesday, October 7th, from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m., with the Requiem Mass at 11:00 a.m. Private family burial at a later date.