Dr. Edward CHESKO

CHESKO, Dr. Edward It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Edward Chesko, 73, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and man, on October 10, 2011. He was surrounded by all his family. Ed was born in Vita, Manitoba to Natalie and Michael Chesko. He spent his early years on the family farm in Tolstoi, Manitoba. He excelled in sports, especially baseball and hockey, and was invited to try out for the New York Rangers. Although he loved sports, he initially pursued teaching as a career. After qualifying as a teacher at the age of 18, he taught school in Ridgeville, Manitoba before returning to university and earning a degree in Dentistry at the University of Manitoba and a Periodontal Degree at Boston University. Ed loved his work, his community, his church, sports and gardening. But most of all he loved his family. He and his family moved to West Vancouver in 1972 where he practiced Periodontics and taught at UBC dental school part time as well as Vancouver Community College where he set up a scholarship for Dental Hygiene. He established and led study clubs for his colleagues in dentistry and attended many conventions to ensure that he was always on the top of his field. Ed always said that family was the most important part of his life. He was a wonderful father, both as a role model and a patient, loving, kind person. He played a central part in the upbringing of all his children, continued to be a source of inspiration and joy, being as active as possible even when his health was failing. He was a lector in his church and enjoyed gardening; planting many rhododendron, azalea, and camellia plants and enjoyed their blooms each spring. He coached Little League for ten years, and cheered his children and grandchildren on when they played baseball, hockey and soccer. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Natalie and Michael Chesko and is survived by his sisters, Marcella and Victoria. His family, Elizabeth, his wife of 48 years, and his children John (Vee), Jim, Jeff (Margaret), Jason (Kelly), and Jennifer (Andrew) as well as his adored grandchildren Jeremy, Jillian, Jakob, Brenton, Keenan, and Max will miss him so very much. A kind, gentle and generous man, his love and caring for his family was always evident. He was always there for us. You will live forever in our hearts, Dad. Until we meet again. Prayers for Ed will be offered at Christ the Redeemer Church, 599 Keith Rd. West Vancouver on Wednesday, October 19th at 8 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at Christ the Redeemer Church, 599 Keith Rd. West Vancouver on Thursday, October 20th at 10:30 a.m. with a reception to follow in the church hall. Interment at Capilano Cemetery. Kearney Funeral Services 604-736-0268