by Mark D. Weinstein, Executive Director of Public Relations
In the heart of the village of Cedarville, Bob and Jenny Czerniak embarked on a heartfelt journey to transform an ancient schoolhouse into a haven of cherished family memories.
Dating back to the 1800s, the schoolhouse stood as a relic of bygone eras, untouched for decades. Yet, with determination and love, Bob and Jenny envisioned a new chapter, crafting a cozy family abode with a special space for Bob's mother — which never happened, as she suddenly passed away.
This one-year project, according to Bob’s timeline, extended into three, but every moment was steeped in nostalgia and joy. Bob fondly recalls working with his father, salvaging aged floorboards from an Indiana home to grace their sunlit sanctuary in Cedarville — now known as “Dad’s Room.” Together, they laid each plank, a testament to their shared love and labor. Tragically, Bob's father passed away a few days later, leaving behind memories etched in the wood and Bob's heart.
Throughout the journey, Jenny's father, battling Alzheimer's, found solace in witnessing the transformation, his joy fresh with each visit, even if he couldn't remember the last. In moments of sorrow and setbacks, the schoolhouse stood as a beacon of hope and resilience for their family.
As the project nears its end, amidst both tears and triumphs, the schoolhouse stands as more than just a building — it's a lighthouse of love, legacy, and the enduring bonds of family.
Listen to their remarkable story on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.