George Matthew Chernenko

George Matthew Chernenko, age 60, passed away on August 25, 2012 in Conroe, Texas. He was born on October 17, 1951 in Brown City, Michigan, the son of Walter and Mary (nee: Sobko) Chernenko.In sharing the story of George's legacy, one could easily write a book about the many facets of his personality and achievements. From his philanthropic & charitable heart, to his strong & notable work ethics, to his unique & giving musical talents, these are but a part of the man who leaves behind a storehouse of memories for those to cherish who were blessed to know him. Yet, without question, one of the most pride-filled aspects of this eclectic man would have to be his passion and involvement in sports,...something which began at a very early age. Though it could probably be debated just how young he was when the sporting itch began to be scratched, there's no doubt that his prowess truly took wing in the sporting programs at his alma mater, Capac High School in Michigan. He was active in both football and basketball, but it was their baseball team that George found his greatest passion and outlet for the sporting skills he possessed. Performing as their pitcher, perhaps the most notable achievement was the day he pitched a "perfect game" against their rival, Memphis High School. With many young boys, high school is often where their competition ends. But George's love for playing ball transcended his teenage years and spanned well into his adult life. Though he changed things up a bit by switching from baseball to softball, his passion remained piqued and his skills earned him some incredible feats. During his Michigan years as part of the Snyder Construction Softball Team, he and his mates broke many records and spent multiple years as "Best in the Nation." Most notably, in 1975, he and his team went on to hoist the trophy as World Champions! Ultimately, in 1997, one of George's proudest moments came when he was inducted into the Michigan USSA Hall of Fame, a softball association of which he was honored to be a member. His Texas years were also notable as it was there that Team IHS won the title as State Champions in softball. George was truly an "Athlete Extraordinaire!"As for employment, that could be a book unto itself. Even as a young man, George's business accumen and entrepreneurial skills were a step above the rest. In the 70's, he worked for the Ford Motor Company and was always mindful of making a difference. On one fateful day, George shared an idea that would, ultimately, save the motor giant a whopping million-plus dollars,...and" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">...and" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">...and" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">...and was rewarded with a brand new car. When the economic picture in Michigan began to change in the early 80's, George decided to head south where things were more promising to the Lone Star State of Texas. But this change brought even loftier decisions when he decided to venture out onto his own. With that entrepreneurial spirit he possessed, building his own business held a great deal of passion. And not merely with one company, but ultimately through 3 different venues which included IHS, Surplus Supply, and York Containers. Not content with working for somebody else, George defined the word "success" and, humbly, did it on his own!Then there was his musical talents. For George, this took its form through his favorite instrument, the accordian. The proud owner of 80 of them, he spent countless hours regaling hosts of audiences over the years in the nearby Houston area where he lived. Together with Mario & friends, they frequented the "Gathering Place," a facility for Alzheimer's patients, as well as a local restaurant venue in Houston. And not only did he find great enjoyment in sharing his talents in public, he was also an ever-present force at the Annual Accordian Conventions in Las Vegas and a proud member of the Houston Accordian Club. But the story wouldn't be complete without honoring George's life for the giving spirit he shared so abundantly. This Godly man truly exemplified the biblical principle of "considering others more important than yourself,"...and did so with a generous heart. Being the sportsman that he was, a huge benefactor of his charitable spirit was Harper Sports Shop in St.Clair Shores. His generosity was an integral part of their success and ability to provide to many. Another venue came through a special alliance he shared following a friend's son who lost a battle with cancer. Each year, George was elated to be a part of the "Brandon Filzek Cancer Foundation" which hosted an annual golf outing to raise funds towards camp accomodations for the many kids battling similar diseases. Then there was his "heart for the homeless." In Texas, he did much to assist many of the local homeless folks by providing avenues for them to get a leg up toward employment, and was affectionately known as "Papa George." In Michigan, his family reflected on that special Christmas Day when he came home to lend a hand in feeding the homeless at the Renewal Church in Warren. He was the guy cutting the Christmas turkey! All things considered, George was truly a special man. Not only did he make a mark and make a difference, but he touched a multitude of lives along the way. And of all that will be remembered from his personal side, the most precious will be that "infectious laugh" he shared. George had a laugh that could fill a room,...and always filled each heart within that room. Wherever he went, happiness followed,...and there's no better testament to a man than that. He loved his family and friends immensely, and leaves behind a legacy of love that will keep him ever-present in their hearts & minds for eternity. An initial visitation for George was held on Wednesday, August 29th at the Metcalf Funeral Director's Chapel in Conroe, Texas.As he returns home for burial, the family welcomes visitor's on Sunday, September 2nd from 11:00am until the time of his Funeral Service at 4:00pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ' Mile Rd) in Warren. Officiating the service will be Rev. Roy Roy. His interment will take place at the Capac Cemetery in Capac, Michigan.For memorial donations in George's name, please make checks payable to Matthew Chernenko - c/o the Capac High School Athletic Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 380138, Clinton Township, MI 48038. Please share memories of George at his guest book.