Robert Cerny

Robert W. Cerny, 80, of Benton Harbor, passed away on September 18, 2012 at his daughter’s home in Paw Paw, MI. A Celebration of Life Eternal will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1650 Bainbridge Center Rd., Watervliet (Bainbridge Township) with Rev. Miryam Hammond officiating. Burial will follow at the church’s cemetery. Friends may call from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Bob was born June 17, 1932 in Chicago, IL to Edward & Anna (Knize) Cerny. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1950. He served in the United States Army from 1953-1955. On February 9, 1957, he married LaVerne Martin in Eau Claire, MI. Bob worked at Whirlpool as a Millwright for 22 years, and retired in 1990. He and his twin brother, Raymond, also operated the Cerny Farm for 66 years in Bainbridge Twp. – where they raised fruits and vegetables. He enjoyed rebuilding tractors and farm implements, and was passionate about being a good steward of his farmland. Bob and Ray also sponsored an annual 4-H scholarship. Bob will be remembered for his stories and for his ability to bend many an ear. Bob is survived by his two daughters: Renee (Jack) Puckett, of Orland Park IL; Laurie (Dennis Hays) Cerny, of Paw Paw, MI; twin brother Raymond (Marla) Cerny of Benton Harbor, MI; two grandchildren, Corey and Meghan Puckett; step-sister Caroline Goldner, of Eau Claire, MI; three sister-in-laws: Elaine Cerny of Benton Harbor, MI; Barbara Michael, of Eau Claire, MI; and Erna Felgner of St. Joseph MI., and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two brothers, Edward & Richard Cerny. Memorials can be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. Those wishing to sign Robert’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.