Obituary of Chester Czech

Chester F. Czech, 81, passed away Friday, November 20, 2009, at Ellis Hospital. Chet was born August 17, 1928 in Schenectady, a son of the late Adam and Catherine (Doda) Czech, Sr. He was educated at St. Mary's Elementary School where he was an altar server and later graduated from Nott Terrace High School. While in high school, Chet played baseball and was considered "outstanding." He faithfully served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1952 and then transferred to the Army Reserve until 1956. After serving our country he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, Distinguished Unit Citation and 1 Overseas Bar. A proud and decorated firefighter, Chet worked his entire 34-year career for the Schenectady City Fire Department. He retired in November of 1987. Chet was a wonderful and competitive athlete. For years he participated in numerous races, most especially Schenectady's Cardiac Classic Run in Central Park on Thanksgiving morning, which he often ran with his daughter, Bonnie. Chet was awarded three medals for his tremendous performance in his age group. Aside from running, he was also a shuffleboard player. Chet won a shuffleboard championship at Matt's Grille in Rotterdam several years ago. He was also a terrific, avid bowler and was active in area bowling leagues. Survivors include his daughters, Kathleen Colose of Niskayuna and Bonnie Czech (also his best friend) of Schenectady; two brothers, Adam Czech of Schenectady and Matthew Czech of Bradenton, FL; one niece, Linda Czech and two nephews, Matthew Czech and Heath Czech. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. from St. John the Evangelist Church, Union Street. Interment will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Schenectady. Relatives and friends are welcome to attend. There will be no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made in Chet's name to Community Hospice of Schenectady, 1411 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308 or to YMCA of Schenectady, 13 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12305.