Obituary of Harry John Michael Cherney

Harry John Michael Cherney, a very kind man.

 

 

Harry was born on May 18th, 1954, in Fernie, BC, to Harry Sr. and Betty. He was the first of six siblings: Debbie, Phil, Bob, Charlene, and Jeanine. He loved his family and extended family dearly. Harry wed the love of his life, Verna, in 1975, and together they started their own family. Tragically, they lost their firstborn, Michael, shortly after his birth in 1978. Sons Christopher, followed by Nicholas, were born in 1979 and 1980, respectively.

 

Being a grandfather was Harry’s greatest pride, and he was blessed with four grandchildren. Christopher and Jennifer introduced him to grandfatherhood in 2008 with Seth, and again in 2010 with Coraline. Nicholas and Dani blessed him with Fox in 2017 and Murphy in 2021. Harry loved being a Grandpa, and his grandkids loved him fiercely. During the kids’ younger years, Harry was affectionately referred to as “Grampa Bobber” because of his striking resemblance to the cartoon character Bob the Builder.

 

Harry was a carpenter who spent his life building and fixing things. He was always ready to help family and friends and worked hard to create a loving home for his family.

 

Harry passed away at the age of 70, on November 25th, 2024, with his loved ones in his heart.

 

Harry truly appreciated and loved all the family and friends who reached out to him and visited during his last few weeks. Their kindness kept him going, and he looked forward to seeing them every day. Thank you to everyone who called and visited. He cherished reminiscing about the old times and sharing a laugh.

 

Harry did not want a fuss made about him after his passing. He requested no memorial donations, asking only that his friends and family “be good to each other, share a coffee.” Perhaps enjoy some perogies and borscht in his memory. His last piece of advice for his beloved grandchildren—Seth, Coraline, Fox, and Murphy—was to “grow up big and strong” and “maybe don’t be a plumber.”

 

He will be missed and live on in our hearts and memories forever.