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Jul 14, 1940 - Jun 6, 2018
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father and grandfather Ely Chernenkov. With family by his side Ely passed away on June 6, 2018 after a courageous battle with cancer at Kootenay Lake Hospital.

Ely was born in Nelson, B.C. on July 14, 1940 to parents Polly and William Chernenkoff. He grew up in Goose Creek, with his older sister Elaine and younger sister Helen. Ely followed in his dad's footsteps driving a logging truck. Work was a big part of Ely's life, he worked for Voykin Brothers, Kootenay Forest Products, Hadiken Brothers and Slocan Forest Products upon retiring in 1997.

He met Olga Zarubin and they were joined in marriage on December 23,1961. They purchased land in Crescent Valley and built their lifetime home together raising their children Larissa, Ely and Marlene. Growing up there were many memorable family camping trips and car trips to Disneyland. Ely was a talented man. He could fix anything and he had a strong will to never give up trying. As children we would call 1-800- Ely- Help for vehicle issues, household issues and the list goes on. He would drop everything he was doing and come help his children and grandchildren and anyone near him.

In retirement he enjoyed spending time at Christina Lake at his summer place meeting new friends and travelling to Hawaii with Olga. At home he spent endless hours in his shop. He found great satisfaction working on his 1966 Orange Mustang.

One of Ely's greatest joys in his life was his grandsons. He was very fortunate to part of their lives from infancy to where they are today as young men. They would often seek Deda's advice and guidance for life's decisions. He attended school activities, concerts, soccer games and travelled the province to endless hockey arenas with his support.

Ely is survived by his loving wife Olga of 56 years. Daughter, Larissa (Colin) Sookro, Son Ely (Loni) Chernenkov, and daughter Marlene Chernenkoff. Grandsons Ryon and Brandon Sookro, Cody Chernenkov and step grandchildren Kelsey and Taylor Turner. Sisters Elaine (Alex) Voykin, Helen (Alex) Barisoff, brother-in-law Paul Zarubin and partner Jane Switlishoff, Aunt Polly Koodrin and numerous nephews and nieces.

Ely's funeral services were held in Crescent Valley Community Hall, and was laid to rest at the Krestova Cemetery on Wednesday June 13. On behalf of the family we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Kobayashi and Dr. Malpass, Kootenay Lake Hospital 3rd floor nursing staff and the Oncology department, Nelson Home Care program and the staff at the Safeway pharmacy.

We would also like to thank Bill Strilaeff, Bill Clark and Jordan Wren from the Castlegar Funeral Chapel, Harry Zeabin for officiating the service, the Psalm singers, Crescent Valley Ladies Cooking Group, and the grave diggers. We would also wish to express our gratitude to all those that sent cards, made phone calls, and stopped by the family home with food, flowers and words of comfort.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation or the Iskra Publication.
Castlegar Funeral Chapel



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