John Robert Chesters
October 30, 1961 – October 2, 2023
John Robert Chesters, also known as Big John, passed away on October 2, 2023, at the age of 61 in Bellevue, Nebraska. He was born on October 30, 1961, in Hartford, Connecticut and grew up in Wallingford. John had a booming laugh that brought joy to those he met. He was a generous and compassionate person who took a genuine interest in helping others. He was a loving father and valuable friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
John is survived by his daughters, Christina Chesters and Sam Chesters (Zach Jacobs), and his sister, Joanne Gyure. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Reed, and his siblings David, Mark, and Marsha.
From 1981 to 1985, John proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he was a repair technician on FB-111A aircraft. After his military service, he worked as a slot machine technician at the NCO Club at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, an instructor at Metropolitan Community College, and a cyber security specialist at First National Bank and Conagra. Despite all of John’s technical expertise, the job that he enjoyed most was perhaps his tenure as a skate guard at the Barbarino Roller Rink during his teenage years. His enviable skills were on display at every skating party he attended for the next thirty-five years of his life.
During his life, John worshiped at St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Church and Southridge Church. He found solace and strength in his faith.
In his free time, John enjoyed computer repair and riding his Harley. He found great satisfaction in fixing computers through his company, Bits and Bytes, and the thrill of the open road. He frequently made the pilgrimage to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota.
Visitation: Sunday, October 8, 2023, from 3-5 PM at West Center Chapel.
Funeral: Monday, October 9, 2023, at 10 AM at Southridge Church in Papillion.
Interment: Tuesday, October 10, 2023, 10AM at Omaha National Cemetery with Military Rites.
All are welcome to attend to celebrate John’s life.
9 Comments
Big John, your military picture does NOT capture the Big John I know. Sooooo much laughter, Dom Perignon,, Groundhog Proms….the list goes on. When I looked down from the balcony at GHP and saw you Surrounded by woman dancing your butt off, I knew then you were someone I needed in my circle. Your pride in your girls was massive- they’re both astonishing women. Rest In Peace Big John, your work here is done. Nila & David Lively
There wasn’t a better person in life , than BIG JOHN and his whole family. Rest in peace brother you will be missed forever love always!!!!!!
We will see you again in Heaven! We will always remember your laughter and fun caring spirit. You will be missed. We love you!
I had the pleasure of visiting in Germany. He was suct a jovial host. Hold his laughter in your hearts.
John was a great man. He always had a smile every day at school. He will missed. I am so sorry for your loss prayers are with you and your family Rest in peace John. Kim Lanci Petano
My thoughts and prayers are with his girls. Your dad was a wonderful person. I loved his friendship. I know he will be missed.
So sorry to hear about the loss of Big John. Gene and I have many fond memories of John from our boating years at the Bellevue marina and to our trips as a group to Mexico. He made you smile and laugh and was a sincerely wonderful and caring person. Though we lost touch on the later years, he will truly be missed.
I knew John from High School; he was a friendly individual. I am sorry for your loss. May God grant you peace and understanding during this time.
Prayers for John’s family at this difficult time. John and I worked together at Pease AFB, N.H. from 1981-1985. John was a great friend, and we shared alot of fun times together. You had such a big heart and we all loved your laugh, always making us laugh! I will miss you my dear friend, until we meet again! Rest in piece now, may God hold you in his grace!!
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