Obituary of Joseph Chernavage

Chernavage, Joseph

Bay City, Michigan

Joseph Chernavage, age 88 years, died November 5, 2023. He was born on July 31, 1935, to the late Peter Chernavage and Anna Ream Chernavage in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Joseph enlisted in the Army when he was 19 years old, and proudly served his country until 1957.  

He worked as a steel burner for many years, and then worked in the sugar beet factory until his retirement. Joe married Esther (Adams) Chernavage in June of 1982, spending many happy years together until her death in 2016. 

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Margaretha Chernavage; brother-in-law, Harold Avery Jr.; and many nieces and nephews. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his brother, Peter Chernavage; and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Avery.

Per Joe's wishes, cremation has taken place.  A Rite of Committal and military honors will take place at 11:00 am, Saturday, November 18, 2023, at St. Agatha's Cemetery, 4618 South Street, Gagetown Michigan. The Reverend José Cabrera will officiate. 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff at Brian's House who have cared for Joe in the past two months.  Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions in Joseph's honor to Brian's House at 664 W. Nebobish Rd., Essexville MI 48732.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.