CHARLIE CHERWINSKI

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CHARLIE CHERWINSKI 1924 - 2014 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charlie Cherwinski, age 89, on Monday, April 14, 2014. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Arlene; son-in-law, Robert; and granddaughter, Pamela. He leaves behind his brothers Victor and Barney; sisters Terry, Lillian, Alice and Florence; as well as many other family members dear to him. Charlie was predeceased by his wife, Bernice (in 2004); brother Tony; and sisters Louise and Mary. Charlie was born in Mountain Road MB, but moved to Nipawin SK, where he spent his childhood. As a young man he worked for the railroad, and later at Westeel Rosco until his retirement. In the early 1950's Charlie met Bernice; they married and settled in Winnipeg and started a family. As he had a passion for farming he frequently visited the family farm in Vivien, where he and his brother, Victor, shared their mutual love of the land. Charlie and Bernice created many happy memories together, they would take long road trips, summer visits to the cottage at Bird Lake, and weekend trips to Neepawa. This time in Charlie's life was filled with family, friends, laughter and music which most often included his long-time friend Pete Kaleta. In the early 1990s Bernice began to develop signs of Alzheimers, and for 14 years Charlie stood by her with unwavering love, tenderness and patience; his dedication and devotion to her was unsurpassed. In recent years, Charlie enjoyed gardening, making preserves and cooking. Up until his brief stay at Concordia Hospital, Charlie was strong and self-sufficient, living by himself at his home in Transcona. Recently, when asked how he was feeling, he would reply "if it wasn't for my knees (pain due to arthritis), I would be out looking for a job!" During this time Charlie developed a very strong bond with his dear friends Hazel and George Streilein. He truly valued this friendship. Their regular evenings out for dinner and frequent visits to the casino were a much anticipated and treasured part of his life. Charlie loved to joke around with everyone he met. His outgoing personality and ability to strike up conversation with anyone, about anything, made him well liked by those who had the pleasure of meeting him. He touched many hearts, and will be missed by his family, friends, neighbours and everyone that knew him. In honour of Charlie's wishes, no funeral service will be held. Winnipeg Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204-897-4665, Wojcik's is in care of arrangements. wojciksfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 03, 2014