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CHEATHAM, JEFFREY C., of Lake Orion, passed away on May 1, 2026, at 66 years of age, surrounded by his loving family.
Jeff was the loving husband of Bobbi (nee Adlam) for 33 years; devoted father of Derek (Jacqueline) Engi, Staci Engi, Olivia (Nathan) Reeder, and Clark Cheatham; and proud grandfather of Leah and Sophia. He was the dear son-in-law of Robert and Janet Adlam; brother-in-law of Randy (Sally) Adlam, Terry (Judy) Adlam, and Suzanne (Randy) Sherman; and beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his Aunt Janet Yahne and Uncle Forest (Bobbie) Malott; cousins Larry, Lynn, Jill, Wendy, Brenda, Beth, Debbie, Jay, Renee and Sarah. He was preceded in death in 2013 by his mother, Roberta Malott. He was also preceded in death by his Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Chuck Tomlinson.
Born in California and raised in Michigan, Jeff graduated from Redford Union High School in 1977 and went on to earn his bachelor's degree in communications from Michigan State University. It was through mutual friends that Jeff met the love of his life, Bobbi, on a blind date in Bay City - a moment that would lead to a lifetime of love and partnership.
Jeff built a successful career as a sales director with Domino Amjet, Inc., specializing in packaging labels and barcodes. His work took him across the country, something he truly enjoyed. Regarded affectionately as a “road warrior”, Jeff embraced every mile with a goal of visiting all 50 states. Admired for his well-respected leadership skills, he was known for his witty humorous speeches and presentations at work events. He couldn’t resist opening meetings with jokes and stories to lighten the mood. He loved his “Central Region” team and gained life-long friendships that he cherished deeply.
A passionate sports fan, Jeff loved all sports, but his heart belonged to his beloved Spartans. His enthusiasm and loyalty were unmistakable, especially during game days. Music was another great passion in his life, and he took pride in his extensive vinyl record collection always appreciating the sound and stories behind the music.
Above all, Jeff was a devoted and dedicated family man. He treasured time spent with his loved ones, whether it was a simple gathering or a special occasion. His presence, humor and steady love made every moment meaningful.
Jeff was also a faithful member of St. Trinity Lutheran Church, where his faith and community were important parts of his life.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his warmth, his passions, and the many memories he created with those he loved. A memorial service will be held Monday, May 18, 2026 at St. Trinity Lutheran Church, 7925 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston, MI at 11 AM. Family will receive visitors Sunday May 17, 2026 2-6 PM at Coats Funeral Home-Waterford. Memorials may be made in Jeff’s memory to the American Cancer Society, The American Red Cross or St. Trinity Lutheran Church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jeffrey Clark Cheatham "Jeff", please visit our floral store.
American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City OK 73123
Tel: 1-800-227-2345
Web: http://www.cancer.org/
St. Trinity Lutheran Church
7925 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston MI 48348
Tel: 1-248-625-4644
Web: https://www.sainttrinitylutheran.com