Peter J. Cherapan, 67, of Brock Steet, Ashland, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2026, at his residence.  Born at the former Ashland Hospital in Fountain Springs, June 17, 1958, he was the son of the late Peter M. and Mary (Krolick) Cherapan.  Pete was a graduate of Mount Carmel High School, class of 1972.  He was a truck driver for area coal companies, and Indian Hills Trucking of Paxinos, lastly, a security guard for the Advanced Security Agency of Coal Township until his retirement.  Preceding him in death was a son Peter J. Cherapan Jr., passing May 24, 1991, sisters; Donna (Cherapan) Stephenson and Tina (Cherapan) Eisenhart.

Survivors

Wife:  Pamela (Butler) Cherapan, married 16 years

Daughter:  Ashley Cherapan, Ashland

Four red headed step children:  Jodi Verdensky, Bloomsburg, Jolene Renninger (Corey), Saint Clair, John Verdensky, (Amanda), Pottsville, Cory Verdensky (Steph), Ashland

Beloved dog Harley

14 Grandchildren, Many good friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Peter’s life, Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2 PM, in the Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, 1323 Centre St., Ashland.  Officiating will be Rev. Jeremy Smallwood, pastor of the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene.  A calling hour will begin at 1 PM until time of service.  The family requests attendees dress casually, and that memorials be made to the Hillside S.P.C.A., 51 SPCA Road, Pottsville, PA  17901.   Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome to leave condolences.  The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.