Michael Ernest Charchenko

Michael Ernest Charchenko
January 1, 1944 – January 4, 2026

Michael Ernest Charchenko, age 82, passed away on January 4, 2026, in Pomerene, Arizona. He was born on January 1, 1944, in Crookston, Minnesota, to Ernest and Mildred Charchenko.

Michael lived a life marked by perseverance, devotion to family, and faith. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his belief in Jesus Christ and the plan of salvation brought him comfort and hope throughout his life.

Michael graduated from Phoenix Union High School in 1961. In December of that year, he joined the United States Navy, where he served in interior communications. After his military service, he worked for Northrop Grumman, contributing to missile guidance systems-a career he approached with diligence, intelligence, and pride.

In 1966, Michael married Patricia Lorraine Mayer. They experienced profound loss with the passing of their son, Michael Allen, in 1967 on the day of his birth, and their daughter, Michelle Lynn, who was stillborn in 1968. That same year, they adopted a son, Todd Michael. Patricia passed away in June of 1970.

Michael later joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1973, he married Jane Ellen Barney Cluff. Jane brought two children into the marriage, Dewain Cal Cluff and James Eldon Cluff, following the tragic death of her first husband, Cal Cluff, in a plane crash in 1970. Together, Michael and Jane had four children: Rachel Ellen, John Edmond, Jeremy Ernest, and Sara Ranell.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Jane Charchenko, and his children:

Dewain (Melinda) Cluff

Todd (Angie) Charchenko

James (Robin) Cluff

Rachel (Shad) Housley

John (Kelsey) Charchenko

Jeremy Charchenko

Sara (Jess) Price

He is also survived by 46 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Mildred Charchenko; his brother, Jon Charchenko; his first wife, Patricia Lorraine Mayer; and his children, Michael Allen and Michelle Lynn.

Michael loved the outdoors and found joy in hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. He was known for his teasing sense of humor, often surprising family members with a quick remark or playful grin. He served faithfully on two missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-one at the Joseph Smith Birthplace Memorial in Sharon, Vermont, helping care for the grounds, and another in the Johannesburg South Africa Mission, where he and Jane served with dedication and love.

Funeral services were held on January 10, 2026, and Michael was laid to rest at the Pomerene Cemetery in Pomerene, Arizona.

Michael's life reflected resilience, service, and love for his family. While his passing leaves a deep absence, those who knew him will remember his engaging smile, infections laugh, and enduring faith in Christ. He was truly an 'Overcomer' and leaves a legacy of grit and endurance.