Col Michael Q. Chester (Ret.)

Colonel Michael Q. Chester (Ret.), 82, died May 24, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he served in the army from 1961 to 1985 when he retired with full honors. He was awarded 2 bronze stars, one with valor, Meritorious Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Army Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge. He earned the award for heroism in combat when the Viet Cong attacked the US Embassy during the Tet Offensive. His leadership was instrumental in denying it to the enemy.

Col. Chester grew up in Seattle, WA, where he met his bride of almost 60 years, Marian Warne Chester. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Washington State University and his master’s from Michigan State University. After retirement he enjoyed many years as an AKC obedience judge and traveling to see his beloved San Francisco 49ers.

He is survived by his wife, Marian, Son Keith Chester, Daughter Gayle Chester Youngblood and her husband Sam, 7 grandchildren; Abbigail Chester Crane, Chase Stockton, Maitlyn Youngblood Parker, Abigail Youngblood Slye, Coke Youngblood, Amelia Chester and Matthew Chester and five great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Florence Chester, brother Bill Chester, son Tim Chester and granddaughter Kendall Youngblood Simon.

Full military honors will be given at a graveside service at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery on June 16 at 9:30 am. Donations in Col. Chester’s memory can be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.