Michael Chernow

1964 - 2022
Michael Chernow, age 57, of Ocean Grove, New Jersey passed away on Monday, February 7, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born April 16th, 1964 in New York, New York to Jay and Eileen Chernow. Michael was preceded in death by his father Jay Chernow. He is survived by his wife Monica, daughter Annie Wahl and her husband Alex, son Austin Chernow, daughter Emily Chernow, mother Eileen Chernow, and his favorite grandcat, whom he dubbed #1, George Chernow.

Michael was an incredibly talented piano player with perfect pitch and an ability to play anything by ear. He received his bachelor's degree from Rutgers University where he studied Medieval European History, one of his true passions. He then received his law degree from St. John's University in 1989 which was fueled by White Castle and Ben & Jerry's ice cream. After passing the New York state Bar Exam, he worked for his father's business, San Juan Music Group, and eventually became President of the company. Under his guidance, San Juan Music had tracks featured in television shows, movies, commercials, and has billions of streams on Spotify, Apple Music, and more.

Michael was known for his quick wit, (often inappropriate) sense of humor, foul mouth, and big heart. He has been described as "larger than life" and a "force of nature." His favorite place on earth was Maui, Hawaii where he dreamed of retiring with his wife Monica, far away from even a whiff of cold weather or snow. On his most favorite days, Michael could be found with a cigar in his mouth, a Mezcal paloma in his hand, and horse racing on the TV surrounded by his kids and wife whom he loved more than words can express.

A funeral service will be held Friday, February 11, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Bloomfield-Cooper Jewish Chapels, 2130 Highway 35, Ocean, New Jersey 07712 immediately followed by a burial at Beth El Cemetery, 3351 Corlies Avenue (Route 33), Neptune, New Jersey 07753.

Shiva will be observed at the family home in Ocean Grove on Friday, February 11, 2022 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Contributions in Michael's memory may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation (www.glioblastomafoundation.org) and the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (www.alzfdn.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bloomfieldcooperocean.com for the Chernow family.