For nearly 25 years, Cheryl Hellmer has been one of the friendly faces helping keep Grand River running smoothly. Since joining the company in July 2001, she has worn many hats and built a reputation as someone who can tackle just about anything that comes her way. Whether she is processing invoices, supporting employees, planning company events, organizing fundraisers, or answering questions outside her office door, Cheryl is always ready to lend a helping hand. As she prepares for her well-earned retirement at the end of August, we're taking a moment to celebrate her nearly 25 years of dedication, service, and friendship at Grand River. Learn more about Cheryl and her experiences at Grand River!
There is rarely such a thing as a typical week for Cheryl. Between processing invoices, orienting new hires, planning events, and fielding employee questions, she jokes, "Sometimes I need a 'take-a-number' dispenser outside my office." Before coming to Grand River, Cheryl spent 15 years as a travel agent after graduating from Edgewood Senior High School and Pacific Travel School. Many Grand River employees were already familiar with her from booking airline tickets and vacation packages, which made her transition into the company a natural fit. When she decided to leave the travel industry, Grand River welcomed her aboard in payroll. Over the years, she has expanded her expertise into accounts payable, human resources, purchasing, and community fundraising efforts.
What Cheryl enjoys most about her work is solving problems and finding resolutions to difficult situations. She values the relationships she has built with her coworkers, many of whom she considers close friends, and takes pride in making a positive impact in the day to day lives of employees. One area Cheryl is particularly proud of is Grand River's commitment to employee engagement and giving back. From Thanksgiving turkeys and Christmas luncheons to retiree gatherings and surprise gifts, she loves helping create experiences that bring employees together. "I also think it's the best 401(k) program and we're an ESOP, which we, as employees, can directly affect the bottom line...it's a win/win." She is also proud of the company's involvement with organizations such as United Way, the Civic Development Corporation, and the American Heart Association. Cheryl believes Grand River's strong benefits, employee ownership through its ESOP program, and culture of involvement make it a truly special place to work.
Over the years, Cheryl has witnessed Grand River's growth firsthand. When she joined the company, the product offering was much smaller and focused primarily on lathe cut and drum and pail gaskets. Since then, Grand River has expanded into additional products and capabilities, including sweeper belts, white lathe cut, high speed filters, and continuous cure lines. Cheryl credits the company's outstanding customer service and ability to evolve as key reasons they continue to thrive.
Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys golfing, reading books shared by friends, traveling, and spending time with her family. She especially loves shopping for and spending time with her granddaughter. Cheryl also stays active in the community through volunteer work with the Civic Development Corporation, United Way, and the American Heart Association. She and her husband recently celebrated 39 years of marriage and still consider each other best friends. Their children live in Texas and California, which provides plenty of opportunities to travel. Cheryl and her husband also enjoy escaping to Clearwater Beach whenever they can. At home, they share life with their cat, Mavis.
If you know Cheryl, you probably already know she has a soft spot for anything made with brie, a serious appreciation for Dr. Pepper, and a love for dragon fruit mango refreshers from Starbucks. She is also a loyal Cleveland sports fan, especially when it comes to the Cavaliers. As Cheryl prepares to retire at the end of August after nearly 25 years, her impact on the company and its people will continue to be felt. While she may no longer be in the office each day, she says she will always feel like a GRRP employee. Thank you, Cheryl, for all that you have done for Grand River. We wish you nothing but happiness, relaxation, and plenty of golf, travel, and time with family in this exciting next chapter.
