Johnny Chernoff

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Johnny Chernoff at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook BC on Dec. 4, 2025, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Johnny was born on June 10, 1942, to Jennie and John Chernoff in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He grew up for a few years on the farm, making music and mischief, before moving to the West & East Kootenays.

Johnny served in the Canadian Navy, which afforded him numerous travel opportunities and fostered a love for many countries and a fluency for many languages. When Johnny retired from the Navy, he moved around for a few years and eventually decided to settle in Kimberley BC, where he enjoyed a long and successful career at Cominco. It was in Kimberley where he raised his 4 children and gave them a love for sports and the outdoors. It was also in Kimberley where he met the love of his life, Susan. Johnny and Sue enjoyed 25 years together, and his absence will be felt for many years to come.

One of Johnny’s most treasured activities was coaching soccer and hockey. He believed that hard work and perseverance would always bring success. Johnny was a gifted musician, hunter, fisherman, and animal lover. His love for nature and music lives on in his children and grandchildren.

Johnny is survived by his devoted wife, Sue, his paternal Aunt Florence Kuzenko, his children Jodi (Hironao), Corrie (Bruce), Lee, and Kelly (Laura), grandchildren Sasha, Courtney, Caitlynn, Brycen, Kru, Yeab, Tsega, Moe, Sarah, Hannah, Jonathan, Aidan, Josiah, Emma, and great-grandchildren Camryn, Leah, Sawyer, Kai, Kayce, and Hope. He will also be dearly missed by his cat, Vimy.

Johnny was predeceased by his mother and father, Jennie Irene and John Nick, and his brothers Bill and Eddie.

Until we meet again Dad, stay special.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the local SPCA.

mcphersonfh.com

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