Michael Cheselka

Michael Cheselka, 88, of Bayville, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2024, at home. Born on July 11, 1935, to Michael and Mary Cheselka, in New York City, his family later moved to Cliffside Park, New Jersey. There Michael ambitiously helped out at his parent's family delicatessen store. Michael proudly served his country in the US Army in the Panama Canal Zone during the 1960s. While serving his country, he married the love of his life, Peggy. Mike and Peggy lived in Fairfield for 32 years. Together, they built a life filled with love and cherished memories. The early years saw them raising a family while Mike provided well for them as an Ironworker and a member of the Union for 66 years. His persistent hard work ethic and commitment to his family exemplified his character. Blessed with three children, Mike was a devoted father who embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly, guiding and supporting his children throughout their lives. He had a deep love for his family and treasured time spent with them.
Michael loved fishing with his two sons, always hoping to catch the "big one" but really just enjoying their time together. He loved all types of sports, especially watching basketball and wrestling. Mike was an avid bowler for many years. His later years were spent browsing antique stores.
He was also a communicant of Saint Barnabas Church and a devoted Adorer. His most cherished moments came later in life in Bayville when he was blessed with his two granddaughters, Emily and Erica, his pride and joy. He enjoyed babysitting them and watching them grow into two beautiful ladies. Michael truly enjoyed holidays and birthday family gatherings, especially with Peggy's sisters and brother because it gave him an opportunity to tell his collection of jokes and riddles that kept everyone in good spirits. Often many of them were the same ones he had told at the last party, but he tried to add a few new ones every time. We all looked forward to hearing them and laughing along with him. Mike had an easy grin that always made you smile. When asked if he was happy, he would say, "Ask Peg." He always leaned on her. She was his lifeline.
Michael is survived by his wife Peggy of 64 years and his loving children, Carol, William and Christina Cheselka, and John Cheselka. He is also survived by his two granddaughters, Emily and Erica Cheselka, and sister Anna Roesler.
Michael will be remembered for his kind and loving nature, his dedication to his work and his unwavering love for his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Visitation will be on Tuesday May 28, 2024, from 4:00-7:00pm at Mastapeter Memorial Home, 270 Atlantic City Blvd., Bayville, NJ 08721. Funeral Wednesday May 29, 2024 at 8:30am at the funeral home before celebrating a Funeral Mass at 9:30am at St. Barnabas Church, Bayville, followed by a burial at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ.
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