Norfolk — Willie Chernitzer, 90, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, Wednesday, July 1, 2015.
He was born in Philadelphia, Pa. in 1924 to Abraham and Goldie (Bobbie) Chernitzer.
Willie grew up in Norfolk. Upon graduating from Maury High School in 1942, he enlisted into the Army-Air Corp at age 18. As part of the “Greatest Generation,” he proudly served as a pilot, flying a B17 bomber in missions over Europe. He was shot down and rescued from mine-filled waters, then went on to continue flying until he was discharged in 1945 as a 1st Lieutenant, earning many distinguished medals. Willie attended the Norfolk Campus of William and Mary, finishing his education in California, where he met and married Phyllis Litvak, to whom he was married for 63 years. He was active in Wards Corner Little League for over 30 years and was a member of the Wards Corner Optimist Club. Willie was employed as an accountant and retired as a senior auditor from Civil Service after 35 years.
He is survived by his wife, his children, David Chernitzer (Denise), Barbara Rossen (Kenneth), Jeffrey Chernitzer (Billye), and Phillip Chernitzer (Joanne); his grandchildren and great grandchildren, his sister-in-law Shirley Chernitzer and brother-in-law, Herbert Litvak (Mitsue), of Sacramento Calif., and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law, Irene and Seymore Chapel, and his brother Joe Chernitzer, of blessed memory.
A graveside service at Forest Lawn Cemetery took place with Rabbi Jeffrey Arnowitz officiating. Memorial donations to Congregation Beth El or a charity of the donor’s choice. H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online condolences may be offered to the family through hdoliver.com.