Esther Rose Czernik

Esther Rose Czernik, age 89, of Celina, Ohio, peacefully passed away at her son’s home in Celina on October 21, 2024, at 7:10 PM. Born on February 27, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, she was the beloved daughter of the late Klemens and Rose Catherine (Sedecki) Kucharzyk. On September 7, 1957, she married Stanley J. Czernik, who preceded her in death on October 3, 1997.

Esther is survived by her two sons, Paul (Jami) Czernik of Celina and David Czernik of Olathe, Kansas. She is also cherished by her four grandchildren: Elizabeth, Benjman, Rebekkah, and Greg, as well as a special nephew, Kenny Korzyniewski and many other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Jacqueline J. Czernik, and by five brothers: Tom, Henry, Chester, Gustave, and Walter Kucharzyk. Esther also mourned the loss of two sisters, Clara Korzyniewski and Florence Wiess.

A proud graduate of St. Joseph Catholic High School in Chicago, Illinois, Esther dedicated 25 years to Illinois Bell Telephone Company in Chicago before retiring. Following her retirement, she spent a fulfilling 10 years as a healthcare provider at Home Instead in Illinois.

Esther, a devoted follower of Christ, grew up in the Catholic faith, which shaped her strong spiritual foundation. Her faith flourished at St John Lutheran Church in Celina for many years. Most recently, she found a welcoming community at Rock City Grand Lake Church in St. Marys. Esther had a profound passion for reading and baking, especially her beloved blueberry and cranberry bread, which she joyfully shared with friends and neighbors as a reflection of her faith in action.

She cherished the freedom of riding her bike, but her greatest joy came from spending time with her family. Esther's generous spirit and kindness touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. She embodied the love of Christ in her daily life, and her legacy of compassion and service will forever inspire those she leaves behind.

A memorial service celebrating Esther’s life will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina, with Rev. Becky Strang officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM prior to the service. Following the service, the Czernik family warmly invites all to join them at St. John Lutheran Church in Celina, for a heartfelt celebration of Esther’s life and a luncheon. Your presence and support mean so much as we honor her memory together.

Private graveside services will be held at North Grove Cemetery in Celina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Association of Mercer County and/or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina & St. Marys are honored to care for Esther and her family during this difficult time. To share your condolences or memories, please visit www.ciscofuneralhome.com or the Cisco Funeral Home Facebook page.