Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties

Larry Czerniak

OMA, Wis. - Larry Czerniak, 66, passed away suddenly and peacefully on April 17, 2020, with his loving wife and soulmate by his side.

Larry was born on June 18, 1953, in Medford, to Alvin and Marjorie (Barta) Czerniak. He grew up in Mercer and began playing drums in the family band at a very young age. In the 70s and 80s, Larry and his brothers, Jim and Bob, formed the Prizm Brothers Band and later the Z-Bros.

In 1983, he married his wife, Greta; and they raised their family in Hurley.

Larry and his brother, Jim, owned and operated Prizm Entertainment in Ironwood, Michigan, for the last 25 years until it was sold in 2019.

He enjoyed sharing his love of life with his family and friends. Recently after semi-retiring, he began to do what he loved, drumming and playing with many musicians including Corey Carlson, who he considered to be like a brother. He was truly known for his true talent as a drummer.

Larry and his wife, Greta, were one in the same. They shared many adventures together, enjoying travel, concerts, and spending time on Madeline Island with their many friends. He lived life to the fullest and was extremely dedicated to his wife, family and Christ. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather; and his grandson, Dallas, was the apple of his eye.

Larry is survived by his wife and soulmate, Greta; daughters, Vici Hoffman, Carmen Hoffman and Kristen (Ron) Schonavar; grandson, Dallas Colassaco of Hurley (who was more like a son to him); sisters, Mary (Erv) Bunn of Ironwood, Cindy (John) George of Slater, Missouri, and Cathy Danley and Judy (Barry) both of Hot Springs, Arkansas; brothers, Jim Czerniak of Ironwood, Bob (Sandy) Czerniak of Hurley, and Gene (Bev) Czerniak of Tampa, Florida.

Larry's infectious smile, laugh, sense of humor and his kindness will be missed by everyone. His presence lit up a room.

"My dear Larry, when I found you, I became a believer that two people are made especially for each other. I loved you like I loved no other. Now all I can do is hold you close in my heart until we meet again," Love, Greta

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Hurley at a later date.

Interment will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery in Hurley.

The family has chosen McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, to honor Larry's legacy of life. You can leave a condolence or a tribute at mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.