Dr. Joseph J. Cernik

Dr. Joseph J. Cernik, age 83 of Mattawan, MI., passed away Monday, February 5, 2024. He was born September 22, 1940, in New York City, New York, the son of Joseph and Helen (Sands) Cernik. He was a graduate of Bronx High School of Science, attended the University of Pittsburgh and received his medical degree from Creighton Medical School. Following his residency, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army officers program and was a Major during the Vietnam War. In 1975, Joe and his family settled in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He worked at the Upjohn Company, first as the director of Occupational Health and Safety and retired as the Vice President of Occupational Health and Safety. On December 26, 1965, he was united in marriage to his loving wife, Karen Brylinsky, who preceded him in death in 2013. He is survived by his two sons, Joe (Julie) Cernik and Matthew (Heidi) Cernik and 2 grandchildren, Joey and Adam Cernik. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 9th, at 11:00 AM at St. John Bosco Catholic Church, 23830 Front St, Mattawan, MI 49071, with Rev. Fr. Alan P. Jorgensen presiding. Interment will follow in Hope Cemetery in Texas Corners. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the St. John Bosco Catholic Parish. Please visit Joe's personalized webpage to sign the online guest book or leave a message for the family at www.langelands.com