September 11, 1918 - September 28, 2018
It is with a deep sense of loss that the family of Fred Chernenkow announces his passing on September 28, 2018 at Talarico place at the age of 100 years.
Fred was born in Glade, BC on September 11, 1918 to John and Elizabeth Chernenkoff, the third of four surviving children. In about 1927, the family moved to Ooteschenia and in 1931 settled on 22 acres in Taghum. Fred attended the Belfour School in Blewett to Grade 5 and then worked on the family farm. At the age of 15, Fred acquired a Pelton Wheel and generator and in 1933 brought electricity to the family home using their high pressure irrigation line. He drove a truck in the logging industry and tried his hand at logging, as well as, automotive work, but his primary interest was in the electrical field. He learned intuitively and fulfilled his apprenticeship while working on the construction of Brilliant Dam. In 1944, he married the lovely Doris Gleboff and within ten years this devoted couple had a family of three children.
Fred worked as an electrician in the local mines, at Bennett's Electric in Nelson, and in 1956 he began his electrical career with the City of Nelson. He became skilled in every facet of the electrical department and eventually was appointed Assistant Superintendent and soon after, Superintendent. He retired in 1979 and worked as a consultant for another year.
Fred was very social and as a young adult played in a local band that even made a couple of records. He helped many people with his electrical expertise especially seniors. With his pioneering spirit, strong will, and work ethic, he built, lived in, and sold five homes in the Taghum area.
Fred loved to travel and took his family on various vacation trips in Canada and the U.S. In later years, he took Doris to Hawaii, Europe, and to many other areas on the continent. He loved curling, fishing and square dancing. He and Doris joined small local choirs and enjoyed singing Russian songs and hymns for many years.
In late 1975, God met him in an amazing way, indwelt him with His Spirit, and transformed his life. He attended and served on the board of Bethel Christian Center in Nelson, as well as, on the board of the local chapter of Full Gospel Business Men. He conducted many local funerals for friends and relatives. He prayed for and ministered to many people, at times, with astounding results.
In late 2008 he experienced a stroke which had an effect on his balance and memory. In 2009 he became a resident of Talarico Place which afforded him excellent care, as well as, an enjoyable time.
Fred is survived by his children, Ginger Makortoff of Castlegar; Len (Julie) Vanin of Nelson; and Janet (Mike) Poznekoff of Castlegar. His surviving grandchildren are Laurie (Gio) Cardone of Calgary; Karen Matthews of Revelstoke; Wendy Makortoff-Grutter of Castlegar; Reuben Chernenkow of Nelson; Abby Chernenkow of Kelowna; Tamara (Ben) Crist of Columbus, Ohio; Dylan Palazzo of Grande Prairie, AB; Nika (Mike) Verigin of Castlegar; Becky Poznekoff (Greg Wheeler) of Nelson; and Ben Poznekoff of Castlegar. His surviving great-grandchildren are Erin (Julio) Reynel of Vancouver; Brandon Cardone of Calgary; Samantha and Zachary Veninsky of Revelstoke; Bethany and Luke Grutter of Castlegar; Gabriel Makortoff of Shawnigan Lake; Olivia, Esmae and Tabitha Verigin of Castlegar; Kayln Chernenkow of Nelson; and Kelsey Palazzo of Nelson. He is also survived by his great-great grandson Zylo Reynel of Vancouver.
Fred has been predeceased by his wife, Doris; his parents, John and Elizabeth Chernenkoff; sister, Vera Kanigan; brother, John Chernenko; sister, Mary Potapoff; grandson, Robert Makortoff; and son-in-law, John Makortoff.
Funeral services were held on October 5 at Castlegar New Life Church and burial was at Park Memorial Cemetery.
The family extends thanks to friends and relatives for their support and compassionate expression at this time of loss. Special thanks to Dr. Merritt and the nurses and caregivers at Talarico Place for the years of extraordinary care; to Pastor James McFaddin and the members of the Castlegar New Life Church; to the ladies who prepared the delicious lunch; to Bill Strilaeff and his assistants of the Castlegar Funeral Chapel; to Nellie Popoff and the Russian singers.