In Florissant, Missouri, on May 22, 1970, Dr. James Cerneka was born to Dennis and Jean Cerneka. He is currently 53 years old and resides in Gilbert, Arizona. Chandler Regional Medical Center was the location where he passed away on March 14, 2024.
Jim Cerneka was the eldest of the five children in the Cerneka family, and he was the one who set the example for her younger siblings throughout life. In addition to Quincy College, he received his education at St. Mary’s Grade School and DeSmet Jesuit High School.
After completing his undergraduate degree, he went on to study medicine at the Chicago College of Osteopathic in Downers Grove, Illinois. Jim relocated to Arizona for his residency after graduating from medical school.
It was there that he met Jenny Schiltz, who would later become his wife. On March 16, 2002, Jim and Jenny tied the knot, and they finished off their family with the arrival of their sons, Lucas, who was born in 2007, and Charlie, who was born in 2010.Following his success in general surgery, Jim moved on to establish a prosperous private practice.
Jim was held in high esteem and admiration by his patients because to his exceptional bedside manner, sensitivity, and extensive range of medical expertise. People will remember him for his dedication to the field of medicine and his willingness to assist those who were in need.
While he was quite successful as a physician and surgeon, he also enjoyed going on trips to see his family and friends and participating in hockey activities. Throughout his entire life, he made it his mission to be a part of the community of guys both at school and on the ice. It was Jim’s favorite activity to spend time outside, particularly fishing and spending time on the water with his family.
Jim had a remarkable ability to engage in conversation and never wavered from his position in any debate or topic he participated in. Jim is survived by his wife Jen Schiltz Cerneka, whom he has been married to for 22 years; his sons Lucas, who is 17 years old, and Charlie, who is 13 years old; his parents, Dennis and Jean Cerneka, who reside in Belleville, Illinois; and his brother Sam (Cindy) Cerneka, who resides in Cary, North Carolina. Sister Jill (Jay) Driscoll, who resides in Mt. Zion, Illinois; sister Kim (Greg) Distler, who resides in O’Falllon, Illinois; sister Kathryn Cerneka-Forsyth, who resides in Oswego, Illinois; mother-in-law Claire (Derek) Tarries; and son-in-law Jim.
As a result of the sudden departure of Dr. James “Jim” Cerneka, who was a cherished husband, father, family member, and friend, we are reaching out to you with heavy hearts to beg for your help. As an alternative to sending flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to his wife, Jen Cerneka, in honor of Jim.
These contributions will be used to support the 529 College Plans of his kids, Lucas and Charlie. Jim is going to be sorely missed; let us join together to celebrate his life and legacy and to provide our support to his family as they go through this trying time.
