cher·ish 
(chĕrĭsh)
(chĕrĭsh)tr.v. cher·ished, cher·ish·ing, cher·ish·es
1. To treat with affection and tenderness; hold dear: cherish one's family; fine rugs that are cherished by their owners.
2. To keep fondly in mind; treasure: cherish a memory. See Synonyms at appreciate.
[Middle English cherishen, from Old French cherir, cheriss-, from cher, dear, from Latin cārus; see kā- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.]
cherish·a·ble n.
cherish·er n.