Cherie Baker

August 20, 1956 – November 6, 2025

Poulsbo — Cherie Baker, 69, selfless in life and work, passed on November 6, 2025, from Pulmonary Fibrosis. In her last days she was surrounded by friends and family and took her last breath with Carmela, her wife, and son, Eric holding her hands. She fought her disease valiantly, staying positive and determined, and was unwavering in her efforts to live life to the fullest.

Cherie was born August 20, 1956, in Hastings, Nebraska, the daughter of Robert Gay and Mary Ann Moore. At the age of 8, her mom moved to Seattle, along with sisters Sue and Jane. She graduated from Bothell High School.

At 21, she was sworn in as a po- lice officer for the Bellevue Police Department where she served for 35 years. Throughout her career she emulated true professionalism and an exemplary work ethic. Hired in 1978, she was a trail blazer for women in law enforcement. In 1991, she became the second female promoted in BPD’s history. In 2010 she was promoted to Deputy Chief and retired in 2013. She left an indelible mark on the department and community by establishing the following programs: Family Services and Domestic Violence Units, the Drug Dog and School Resource Officer programs, and the Department’s Benevolent Association, serving as its first president.

She was a devoted stepmother to Jessica (Garth), Amy, and Eric (Rebecca). A doting grandmother to Luke, Cole, Violet, Charlotte, and Beatrice. A loyal lifetime friend to many, caring daughter, a supportive sister (Jane and Sue), a special member of the large Dellino family, and a loving wife to Carmela for 25 years. She also leaves nephews Shawn (Diane) and Wyley and niece Mona (Daniel).

Cherie was an extraordinary woman. She had a deep sense of community, compassion for people, and worked arduously for the betterment of their lives. Her loyalty, tenacity, and integrity were unrivaled. She was gregarious and funny. She will be remembered for her warmth, wisdom, courage, and enormous capacity for love. Traveling, biking, hiking, kayaking, and cooking were her happy places, but nothing brought as much joy as spending time with her wife, stepchildren, grandkids, family and friends. She will be forever missed and leaves an enduring legacy.

A Celebration of Life will be celebrated on Jan 31, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Community Center 14224 NE Bel Red Rd. Bellevue 98007. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bellevue Police Foundation or Youth Eastside Services.