Passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, after a brief and challenging battle with lymphoma at St. John’s Hospital in Detroit. Born on February 3, 1950, in Detroit, Cheryl was the beloved daughter of Audrey (nee Sliman) and Harold “Whitey” Hayward, and the oldest daughter of three siblings. She graduated from St. Clement High School in Center Line in 1968, where she formed lifelong friendships.
Cheryl was the beloved wife of Donald Ezop for 44 years and a loving mother to Jennifer Mathiak Ryntz (Eric) and Devin Ezop (Nora). Together with Don, Cheryl co-founded Metro Wire and Cable Corp. in Detroit Michigan in 1976. Her leadership was instrumental in establishing and guiding the company, which over the years expanded to two more locations in Atlanta, Georgia and Iowa City, Iowa. Even after her retirement, she was still contributing significantly to its enduring success.
Cheryl had a passion for music and enjoyed attending concerts, particularly those by Barbara Streisand, Aerosmith, and Van Halen, often sharing these experiences with Don and friends. Beyond her professional achievements and love for music, Cheryl found joy in shopping, solving crossword puzzles, and cherishing moments with loved ones. Christmas Eve fondue and her famous rolls were Cheryl’s treasured traditions. She adored taking her grandchildren to movies, exploring Metro Detroit, and enthusiastically supporting their sports activities.
Known for her impeccable taste and thoughtfulness, Cheryl delighted in selecting the perfect gifts and treasured visits to the Hallmark store. She also found solace in traveling to their second home in Dawsonville, GA, and their peaceful condo on Crooked Lake, MI.
Above all, Cheryl’s greatest accomplishment was undoubtedly her role as "Nana" to her beloved grandchildren Jack and Grayson Ryntz, Finn, Audrey, Maryl, and Kit Ezop. Cheryl's legacy endures through her family and the lasting impact of Metro Wire and Cable Corp.
In addition to her husband, children and grandchildren, Cheryl is survived by her brother Jim Hayward (Ann) sister Linda Hayward (Glenda Kittles). Nephew Geoff Hayward (Bethany) niece Laura De Looff (Brad) and many great-nieces and nephews. Predeceased by “Buscia” Susie Ezop.
As a devout Catholic, Cheryl's life will be celebrated on Monday, July 8th, at her visitation from 3pm until 8 p.m. rosary at 6 p.m. at A.H. Peters Funeral Home in Grosse Pointe Woods. Funeral will be at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church in Grosse Pointe Farms on Tuesday, July 9 at in state at 9:30 mass at 10 a.m.
In Lieu of flowers please contribute to Alzheimer's Association (act.alz.org) and Boys Town (https://www.boystown.org/)
Cheryl will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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