Chester Lech

Chester was born on August 12, 1925, the son of Ukrainian immigrants Stephen and Pauline (nee Dlugosz) Lech. The early death of two sons, Bradford and Grant, and beloved wife Corinne on December 21st, 2023, broke his heart. He is survived by sons Gary (Sally) and Winston. Chester also left behind many wonderful memories and people who dearly loved him: daughter-in-law, Jeanette Lech, grandchildren, Corey (Shantay), great grandchildren Brody and Elly; Joshua; Cambria, great grandchild Grant Smith. He was proud of each and every one. His words of encouragement will also be missed by many cousins, nephews, nieces, neighbors and friends.

Chester enlisted at 17 in the Navy and fought in World War II serving as an Aviation Radioman Second Class. He flew anti-submarine search missions in the Caribbean aboard a Martin PBM Mariner. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Victory, and American Theatre Ribbons. He maintained his interest in radio with his lifelong activity as amateur radio operator W2DPR. He was proud and honored to have served his country and was active in Hicksville’s American Legion.

After the war Chester met the love of his life, Corinne, at a dance. They married in 1947 and raised four boys in Hicksville, New York. Chester made his career working for 37 years at IBM as a Consulting Systems Engineer in the New York Process and Distribution center. He was named Systems Engineer of the year in 1971. After his retirement in 1993 he and Corinne continued dancing and travelling the world.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the American Legion Legacy Scholarship fund (https://mylegion.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Give/Donate).

A visitation for Chester will be held Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes, 125 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801. A committal Service will occur Monday, December 23, 2024 depart from funeral home at 10:00 AM for a 11:00 AM service at Calverton National Cemetery, Wading River, NY 11792.