Chester Carl Wlodek

Chester Carl Wlodek born in the Detroit, MI area on July 3, 1930 and was raised by Jennie and Richard Wlodek. All through his younger school years, he enjoyed tinkering with and repairing machines; in high school he focused on auto mechanics. He enlisted in the Air Force and became a staff sergeant for the 51st interceptor squadron in Korea. While serving in the United States, Chet met the love of his life, June, in a café where she worked; it truly was love at first sight! They married, had their son Jerry, and moved out to Arizona where their two daughters, Stephanie and Deanie, were born. Chet worked as an auto mechanic and owned his own business; he spent the latter part of his career at Purcell’s/Western States Auto and became the first and only Safety Coordinator. Chet spent much of his time volunteering at church as a leader, a cook for youth programs and working in the local food bank. His main passion was always his family.

Chet is preceded in death by his wife, June, and his son, Jerry Lynn. He is survived by his daughters, Stephanie O’Connor and Deanie Wlodek and their spouses, Kenny O’Connor and Nadine Sass; his grandchildren Cheryll Gardner, Ron Clark, Kristi and Will Hopkins, Andi and Perry Hawkins, Casey O’Connor, Keith and Destiney O’Connor, and David and Francine Davis.

Chet was most proud of his 12 great grandchildren: Corinne and Eric Clark; Aiden, Greyson and Elijah Hopkins; Charli and Myla Hawkins; Declan, Parker Chet and Everly O’Connor; Ariana and Braidon Davis.

When he first became a grandpa, his granddaughter Cheryll could only say “Panky” instead of Grampy. The name stuck and he has been affectionately called Panky by so many over the years.

Panky was a master storyteller. He could draw you in immediately and before you knew it, you were many stories in - laughing and smiling and wanting to know more. The family favorites were his stories of his wife, June (Nanny) - so much laughter and adoration. Together they built a legacy of love, humor, and partnership their children and grandchildren strive for.

He is remembered for his remarkable generosity and unconditional love. He was a man of honor and integrity, a giver to all with no bounds.

He was deeply compassionate and a dedicated champion to causes close to his heart. Our Panky felt deeply, loved fiercely and was a passionate family man above all else. He loved Jesus and made sure others knew Jesus loved them too. You always belonged if you found yourself in the presence of Panky.

He never missed a birthday, anniversary or special occasion, always marking those moments with a card in the mail signed, “Remember, God loves you and so do I.” His smile was contagious and enchanting. He was a gift to know, a blessing to encounter. For those that called him Dad, Panky, Pops, Daddio and friend, this loss is incredible; still, joy abounds knowing his legacy is alive and his spirit is now overflowing with peace as he shares stories with June in the presence of the One he loves and who loves you too.

We will be celebrating Panky’s life on December 2, 2023 at Inspira Community at Arrowhead, 20240 N 78th Ave Glendale, AZ 85308 starting at 3:30pm

3:30pm-4:30pm Shared Stories and Memories

4:30-6:30 food, drinks and visit with friends and family

Donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Chester’s honor. Stjude.org

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageMaryvale.com for the Wlodek family.