Judd Chesler

Judd grew up on Sheridan Road with his dear brother Mickel, his parents, and his grandmothers, Annie and Alma. Judd loved to play on the back lots of Rogers Park and go to the beach with his mom. Judd attended Gale Elementary School where he made lifelong friends and Sullivan High School where he liked to dance, the music of Bob Dylan, and cars. Judd went to the University of Illinois at Chicago and Northwestern University where he studied film. Judd got his first academic appointment at Purdue University where he met the love of his life, Kathryn (Kitty) Mross. Together, they moved back to Rogers Park and ultimately Evanston. Judd dedicated his career to the Department of Film and Video at Columbia College contributing to its significant growth. He served in many roles, including Graduate Program Director of Film and Video. The role he most cherished was being a mentor to students who became loyal friends to Judd and Kitty. In retirement, Judd led film discussions at the Vickers Theater in Three Oaks. Judd and Kitty enjoyed spending time with family, their rich social life, relaxing at their cottage near Lake Michigan, watching sports (the Bears!), and travel.

Judd was a great Dad to his daughter Deborah. They spent many a day wandering Chicago museums, going to the beach, and getting ice cream. He was a cherished grandfather to William (Liam) and Adam who share his love of movies and sports.

Judd is beloved by his wife of 42 years, Kathryn Mross, his daughter Deb (Mark) Moroney, his brother Mickel (Natalie Hilberg), his nephews David (Renee) and Daniel Chesler, and his grandsons Liam and Adam Moroney. He will be missed by his brothers in law, James Mross (Jill), Harry Shiparski, niece Jennifer Bartolotta, nephews Andrew, Chris (Betsie), James (Angela) Shiparski, Alex Mross (Karin), grandnieces and nephews Trevor (Estelle) and Ryan Chesler, Claire Shiparski Nelson (Brett), Anne, Katelyn, Harry, and Josie Shiparksi.

He will be remembered by all who he touched through his passion, curiosity, depth of knowledge, and humor.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, go see a movie. Support a local theater. Enjoy the show.

“Die my dear? Why that's the last thing I'll do.” G.M.