Bake cake as directed on box in 9 x 13 inch pan. Let cool.
1. Crumble 1/2 the cake into small pieces, place in bottom of punch bowl.
2. Mix pudding using 5 cups milk. Pour 1/2 over cake.
3. Add 1 can cherries. Smooth over pudding.
4. Add 1 can crushed pineapple, drained.
5. Add 1/2 the Cool Whip.
6. Sprinkle on 1/2 of the pecans.
Repeat first 6 steps. Serves 16 to 20.