Obituary: Charneski, Lawrence P. “Larry”

CHARNESKI, Lawrence P. “Larry” Larry P. Charneski was peacefully called home to Heaven on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 in his home.

Larry was born in Spokane, WA on September 5, 1931 to Peter and Hertha Charneski.

He graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1949 and went on to serve as a lithographer in the United States Navy.

Larry attended Whitworth College in Spokane and Washington State University in Pullman.

He was employed for many years as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for Goodwill Industries.

In 2009, Larry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Marlene Charneski.

Larry was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed attending athletic events to watch his grandchildren.

He also enjoyed attending plays and musicals and was a season ticket holder for both the Spokane Civic Theatre and Best of Broadway series.

Larry’s greatest passion was his love of the outdoors and he was an active member in the Hobnailers Hiking Club, which he joined in 1967.

It was this club that provided him with many of his fondest friendships and memories, and he had just been recognized for surpassing 18,000 miles hiked.

Larry had also participated as a member of the Kiwanis Club, the Danish Brotherhood of America, the American Volkssport Association and the Lilac City Volkssport Club.

His sense of humor and fun loving charisma brightened the lives of those around him and he will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Lance and Sherri Charneski, granddaughter Courtney Charneski, and grandson Ryyan Kernkamp.

Visitation will be held between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at Heritage Funeral Home.

Celebration of life ceremonies will be held on Monday, January 28, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at Heritage Funeral Home and will be officiated by Pastor Happy Watkins.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to: The Hobnailers, PO Box 1256, Spokane, WA 99210.