Obituary of John David Chester

John David Chester born on April 22, 1941, in Coal Creek, B.C., passed away at East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook, B.C., on September 5, 2020. 

 

John grew up in Fernie, B.C., hunting, and fishing, and generally causing mischief.  His love of the outdoors would continue to grow, and he added snowmobiling to his hobbies.

It was here, in beautiful Fernie that he met and fell in love with Beryl, his wife of 54 years, after the two were set up on blind date by mutual friends.  Their family grew to include two daughters and they moved to the isolated inlet of Clowholm Falls, B.C. so that John could obtain a fulltime position with BC Hydro.

 

After two years on the sunshine Coast, John and Beryl would settle in Cranbrook and raise their family.  John was a regular member of the Cranbrook Curling Club for many years and never missed a bonspiel.  Back in the East Kootenays, many a summers day was spent at the family cabin that he had built with his father at Edwards Lake.  This was one of his favourite places, and he was always adding to his list of improvements.

 

John worked for BC Hydro for close to 40 years, retiring as a sub foreman in General Trades.  He was an easy-going man, that was well liked by many, friends, and coworkers alike. Retirement brought a passion for golf, time spent with grandkids, and trips to Bonners, and Las Vegas with Beryl and their daughters. John was known for his kind and gentle manner, his love of animals and Costco, his patience, and sense of humour.

 

He leaves to grieve wife Beryl, daughters, Patricia (Oren), Lisa (Rob), grandchildren Reid, Spencer, Beth and Martin, Sisters Shirley (Gordon) Lois (Joe), Niece Dorrie (Kohla), Nephew Darren (Elaine) and his cousin Merle. He will be missed by many other cousins, friends, and neighbours.

 

He is predeceased by his parents, Martha, and Dan Chester.

 

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the E.K.R.H. ICU team, Dr. Wik, Dr. Frolova, RNs Nancy and Megan for the care and compassion they demonstrated towards our family.

 

A Celebration of Johns Life will take place at a future date and time.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s honour to the Kootenay Wildlife Heritage Fund https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/kootenay-wildlife-heritage-fund-society/ or East Kootenay Foundation for health- East Kootenay Regional Hospital ICU Dept, or the charity of your choice.

 

 

“The pain of loss is a reflection of Love, but never regret loving as hard as you can.”

Author Unknown

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com