Sunday, February 24, 2013
As Chet's mother, I knew him as an infant who evolved into a warm, sensitive, intelligent child. He was born into a loving family of grandparents and relatives. He enjoyed being the older brother to his young sibling, Douglas. He attended Nassau Lutheran Day School for eight years, graduating with honors in scholastics, sports and stewardship. After graduation, his goal was to study the law. The law was his passion and he had a successful career as a corporate attorney. Whenever I spoke with Chet, it was very evident that Betsy, Emily and Charlie were the most important people in his life. He was a loving husband and father whose greatest pleasure was the time he spent with his family. Whenever he commented about their golf games, sporting events they attended or family vacation trips, he ended with an anecdote that expressed the fun they enjoyed together. I believe his legacy to all of us is the courage he demonstarted during the latter part of his life. He faced so many challenges, always with quiet dignity, spirit and acceptance. It was Chet's way. It is heartbreaking to have a life end untimely. My one consolation is that Chet is at a place now that is peaceful, joyous; one we may all envy. Chet was my son and I love him.