Michael Chernikoff
courtesy photo
Michael Chernikoff
POLSON — Michael John Chernikoff, 34 years old, of Polson, was lost to us in a swimming accident on Flathead Lake on Aug. 4, 2019. He was born on April 25, 1985, to Kenneth and Katrina Chernikoff.“/stōkt/ adjective: stoked. exhilarated, excited, or euphoric. (slang).” There was one word to describe Michael: stoked!! Since childhood, Michael was an exceptionally kind, funny, original, and loving person whose enthusiasm and gratitude for everything in life was both apparent and contagious. A born entertainer, communicator, and multi-faceted artist, Michael touched countless lives with his sincere interest and natural inclination to engage with others as both a compassionate listener and enthusiastic conversationalist.Michael was a fearless and extraordinarily gifted artist who invested his creativity, humor, and skill in music, photography, drawing, rapping, filmmaking, drama, cooking, and even as a confessed “closet trombone player” with immeasurable passion. He was also an avid and longtime skier, skateboarder, and all-around athlete. Michael was a true and loyal friend to an abundance of people from all walks of life, shared a remarkable closeness with his beloved parents, his sister Amy, his brother-in-law Cody, his nephew and niece Trey and Harper, and found a recent and special joy in his relationship with Mathina and three-year-old Jaiden. Michael worked for several years at Mission Mountain Natural Foods in Polson, a job he truly loved, among people he felt the greatest respect and affection for. He was also a much adored member of 12-step groups in the area, where his engagement and unique, funny, and entertaining expressions of gratitude, enthusiasm, and joy in sobriety will be terribly missed. Please join us for a “Celebration of Michael’s Life” on Sunday, Aug. 25, at the Chernikoff residence, 31804 Holmes Creek (turn onto Holmes Creek at 7-mile marker, Highway 35, one mile north of Finley Point, second house on the left), from 1-5 p.m. There will be a barbecue and guests are asked to bring potluck dishes. Please no alcohol or intoxicants out of respect for Michael’s sobriety. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.thelakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the direction of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.
