Chester L. Szymczak

Chester L. Szymczak, age 80, entered eternal life on Sunday, February 8, 2015 with his loving family at his side.

Chester is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Elizabeth (nee Oberleitner); loving daughter, Cheryl (Bill) Gimbel; cherished grandchildren, Brian (Sarah) Gimbel, Jennifer (Joseph) Meredith, Margaret Gimbel, Benjamin, Katrina (Rico Santos), and Mollie (Jason Castillo) Huhnke; cherished great-grandchildren, William and Jacob Gimbel, Dominic and Anthony Meredith, and Ava Santos; dear sisters, Dorothy (the late David) Cargill and Judith (Michael) Slobodzian; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his loving daughter, Kelly Huhnke; parents, Edward and Virginia (nee Smolinski).

Chester attended St. Josephat Grammar School and graduated from Holy Trinity High School in Chicago. He worked in the hobby industry for 33 years and owned Niles Raceway Hobby Store for 5 years. He loved music, playing the drums and performing in bars and venues throughout the north side of the city. He was also an avid Cubs and Bears fan. Chester will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Chester's name, to Joliet Area Community Hospice or Joliet Township Animal Control.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the 4th floor staff at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center and Joliet Area Community Hospice.

A Celebration of Chester's life will begin on Thursday, February 12, 2015 with a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet. Family and friends to MEET AT CHURCH. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, February 11 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435. Per Chester's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.