Chester James Camarata, age 96, of New Britain, passed away on October 6, 2019 after a long illness. He was born on February 3, 1923 and was a lifelong and proud resident of New Britain. Chester was the son of Giovanni and Jennie Camarata who came to the United States from Villasmundo, Sicily in 1919. They resided in New Britain during its heyday, working in the Fafnir Bearing and Stanley Works companies.
Chester was a part of “The Greatest Generation.” He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in May 1943 at the age of 20 and served aboard the USS Greene. His wartime service started in Little Creek, Virginia and brought him to the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean war theaters. He was honorably discharged in 1945. He enjoyed the many ship reunions that he and Rose attended. Chester was an avid sportsman enjoying Fishing, Hunting and Golfing well into his late 80’s. He had a great love for music and supported local musicians in various local venues. Chester and Rose attended the Stanley Works Retirees Center regularly and enjoyed spending time there playing pool and socializing with its members. He was an active member of the New Britain VFW.
Chester was a devoted family man leaving his beloved wife Rose of 71 years and their children Chester D. and Ruth Camarata of Berlin and Nancy and Robert Ellis of New Britain. Their Grandchildren who he took such great pride in, Nicholas, Jillian, David and Christopher and Great grandchildren James, Brooks, Drew and the new twins Ava and Isabella. The annual vacationing at Lake Hayward was a family activity he enjoyed.
The family thanks his dear friends Jerry and Judy who he and Rose enjoyed spending time with and his neighbors Dan and Bob who helped Chester and Rose over the past few years. A special thanks to the Veterans Administration for supporting Chester during his final years.
A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2019 at the New Britain Memorial & Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by Service at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Military Honors. Memorial contributions may be made to support the Disabled Veterans of America at www.dav.org.
