Vernon Peter Cherneski

Vernon Peter Cherneski

July 24, 1937-January 14, 2022 -

Vern peacefully passed away January 14th, as he wanted, in his home.

Vern is survived by his wife, Penny and his children; Cathy and Craig Adams, Christy Cherneski Estencion, Alan Estencion, Peter and Renee Cherneski; his grandchildren, Will, Lexi (O’Riley), Shanell (Kaleo), Devan, Darian (Jeremy) and his great grandchildren, Tess, Gaudens, Rin, Emerson and Owen. His sister, Elaine Ayotte, and brother, Jim Cherneski, and his many nieces and nephews. Vern was preceded in death by his favorite daughter Cindy.

Vern was born to Peter and Adrienne Cherneski in Flint Michigan in 1937. He graduated from Ferris State ‘59 with a teaching degree and a passion to move to Alaska. In 1964 he made his trek to Big Lake, Alaska and shortly after started teaching at Wasilla High School and coaching basketball. During this time, he became an avid dog musher who eventually fulfilled his dreams of running the Iditarod, not only once but twice. He was an Alaskan outdoor enthusiast who loved commercial fishing, hunting, goldmining, and being with family and his many, many friends.

No one he met was a stranger, he was always welcoming to anyone and everyone who crossed his path. Vern was a great husband, father, brother and friend.

To all of us who knew him, knew that he was a special light, had a loving heart and a personality that cannot be forgotten, and he will be dearly missed by all.

There will be a Celebration of Life on January 23, 2022, from 1-4:00 pm at the Palmer Moose Lodge at 1136 East Cobb Street, Palmer, AK 99645

All family and friends are welcome to come and share your best Vernski memory.