WILLIAM "BILL" CHERNISKE
DEXTER - William “Bill” Cherniske, 67, husband of Amber (Knowles) Cherniske, died peacefully November 17, 2009 after his heroic year-long battle with cancer at his home. His beloved wife Amber of 26 years was at his side. Bill was born in New Milford, Connecticut October 19, 1942, a son of William and Rose (Shanks) Cherniske. He graduated from Henry Abbott Technical School, Class of 1960. After serving in the U.S. Army he worked with his Dad as a master mechanic for the family business, Berkshire Sales & Service, Danbury, CT.

He moved to Dexter in the 70’s and began Cherniske Brothers Construction Company and settled into his home, Misty Blue Acres on Lake Wassookeag. Bill had a great passion for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, horses, and working on his farm, where he raised Hereford beef cattle and bred Morgans with his beloved stallion Hyland. Bill also loved to tell stories, laugh, and meet new people.

In addition to construction, Bill also spent many years trucking for Hartt Transportation, UPS, Eastland Woolen Mill, Lyle Pierce Inc., Herrick Construction, S.D. Wilbur Trucking Inc., Fleet Car, and the Craft Transportation Company. He was known by many as ”Dancin’ Diesel” and “Wild Bill”.

After 30 years on the road he worked for Motor Supply Co. in Dexter. Bill had a unique talent for figuring out how to fix just about anything. He will also be remembered for lending a hand to neighbors and strangers alike, and for his love of dancing.

He is survived by his children, William Cherniske of Coventry, CT, Cynthia Sturm of New Fairfield, CT, and Amie Smith of Dexter; 7 grandchildren: William, Christina, and Addeline Cherniske; Grace & Lauren Sturm; Makayla and Morgan Smith. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary Powers of Auburn; Patricia Cherniske of Saco; Gail Ferraro of Exeter, NH; and Timothy Cherniske of Shoreview, MN.

Graveside committal services will be held 1 PM Saturday, November 21st, at Corinna Village Cemetery, Corinna. A gathering of friends and family will follow the service at the Dexter Fire Station, Church St., Dexter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Dexter Fire Department, c/o of Everett Hibbard 148 Elms Rd Ripley, ME 04930; or the Alfond Cancer Center of Maine, 361 Old Belgrade Rd Augusta, ME 04330.

Those who wish may leave written condolences at www.CrosbyNeal.com.